NIA Links Drone Experiments and Faridabad Safehouse to Youth's Role as Red Fort Blast Probe Uncovers a Wider Network

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The NIA made another breakthrough in the Red Fort blast case with the arrest of 20-year-old Jasir Bilal Wani, also known as Danish. Officials say he played an important part in the terror module and used his technical skills to work on drone modification and small rocket experiments that aimed to strengthen the group’s strike plans.

The arrest took place in Srinagar after investigators linked Wani to Umar un-Nabi, the suicide bomber who drove the explosive-filled car that blew up near the Red Fort on November 10. The agency says the module operated like a tightly organised group with clear roles and strong coordination across states.

Second Arrest in 48 Hours Strengthens Probe

This is the second major NIA arrest in two days. On Sunday, the agency detained Amir Rashid Ali, a plumber from Kashmir who owned the vehicle used in the attack. Investigators believe Ali stayed in touch with Umar and travelled with the group several times, helping them prepare for the blast.

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Investigators say Wani met the core members of the module at a mosque in Kulgam and then moved to a rented room near Al-Falah University in Faridabad. Parts of the IED and other weapons are believed to have been assembled there. 

His technical talent helped the group test drones and attempt to build small rockets, which signals a shift toward homemade, tech-driven weapons.

Family Turmoil and Expanding Investigation


Family tensions rose after Wani’s detention. His father reportedly attempted self-immolation after failing to meet him and later died. Wani’s uncle, a physics lecturer, also faced questioning.

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The NIA says the group operated through encrypted messaging apps. Each member had a fixed role. Medical professionals handled money. A cleric managed weapon storage. Umar trained young men for possible suicide missions. The module also moved weapons across Delhi, Haryana, and Jammu and Kashmir, often changing hands to avoid attention.

Earlier searches recovered a foreign-made rifle and a pistol from another accused doctor. This pushed the investigation forward and exposed the deeper network behind the Red Fort blast.

Aftermath and Investigative Measures

The agency has questioned more than 70 witnesses so far. Raids continue across several states. More arrests are expected as investigators work to identify external handlers, funding routes, and planned targets.

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This case highlights a dangerous trend. Trained young men with scientific knowledge are now supporting terror modules by turning drones and simple tools into weapons. The NIA now focuses on tracking the source of these parts, studying digital footprints, and preventing similar plots.

The investigation continues with full coordination between central and state agencies.