New Delhi:
Investigators suspect that a highly unstable explosive, notoriously referred to as the 'Mother of Satan,' was probably utilized in the explosion that devastated the center of the national capital a week ago. Officials stated that Triacetone triperoxide (TATP) can detonate merely from heat, without the need for a detonator. Forensic experts are currently working to verify if TATP was responsible for the lethal explosion.
Initially, the police suspected that ammonium nitrate was used in the explosion of an i20 car near the Red Fort on November 10, resulting in 13 fatalities and injuring almost 24 individuals. Umar Mohammad, a doctor allegedly connected to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist organization, was driving the vehicle when it detonated.
The investigation teams suspect that Umar knew about the volatile characteristics of TATP before he went into the busy area—the explosion occurred near Chandni Chowk, a highly populated region in Old Delhi.
The 'Mother of Satan'
Experts refer to TATP as the 'Mother of Satan' due to its high sensitivity. Any alteration in its physical environment, such as friction, pressure, or increased temperature, can destabilize the trimer and cause an explosion. Unlike ammonium nitrate, which is stable both chemically and thermally and requires an external detonator, TATP does not need a detonator.
The explosive was given the nickname 'Mother of Satan' because it is frequently used by illegal bomb-makers globally. Residues of this compound were discovered following the 2017 Barcelona attacks, the 2015 Paris attacks, the 2017 Manchester bombing, and the 2016 Brussels bombings, with those who created these explosives thought to have undergone some type of terrorist training.
TATP Used In Delhi Blast?
The damage at the explosion site aligns with patterns typical of TATP, recognized for its strong shockwaves. Forensic teams are currently examining the residue to verify TATP's presence. The force of the blast indicates that the explosive might have been subjected to heat or became unstable within the vehicle. Investigations are underway to determine if it detonated accidentally during transport for a potentially larger terror attack.
The investigators are also examining how Umar obtained the chemicals necessary for producing TATP, as it involves several components. They are investigating whether he had assistance from a larger network or if others participated in creating the explosive. The police and central agencies are analyzing digital footprints, movement records, and communication history to trace Umar's actions leading up to the explosion.
According to the officers' reconstruction, on November 10, Umar navigated the crowded streets of Old Delhi for an extended period before the explosion occurred. If the presence of TATP is verified, it is also necessary to investigate how the compound stayed stable in the vehicle for several hours prior to detonation.
Three colleagues of Umar, namely Shaheen Saeed, Muzammil Shakeel, and Adil Rather, who are all doctors at Al Falah University in Faridabad, have been detained in relation to the explosion. An investigation is ongoing to ascertain whether they intended to carry out a series of blasts throughout the National Capital Region (NCR).
Authorities seized almost 3,000 kilograms of explosives and bomb-making components from residences leased by the suspects, suggesting a malicious scheme orchestrated by the Jaish-affiliated terror group. Additionally, a rifle and ammunition were discovered in Saeed's vehicle, and her recent passport verification suggests she might have been planning to escape the country.