Delhi blast case: ED raids over 25 locations linked to Al-Falah University as probe widens

The investigation into the deadly car bomb blast near Delhi’s Red Fort intensified on Tuesday as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched coordinated raids at more than 25 locations linked to the Al-Falah group across Delhi-NCR. The searches, which began around 5:15 am, form part of a wider probe into suspected financial irregularities, shell company operations and alleged money laundering linked to the evolving terror module.

According to officials, the ED’s teams also raided the Okhla office of Al-Falah University, besides premises associated with its trustees, faculty members, and connected entities. Several individuals linked to the institution — including Dr Umar Un Nabi, the key suspect who allegedly drove the explosive-laden car on the day of the blast — have been under the scanner.

🔶 Forensic Audit Ordered; Financial Network Under Scrutiny

Following early investigative leads, the government has ordered a comprehensive forensic audit of the university’s financial and administrative records. Multiple agencies—including ED, the Income Tax Department and specialised financial intelligence units—are now cross-examining evidence to map fund flows and detect potential misuse of accounts or diversion of money.

Sources indicate that agencies are focusing on individuals holding critical financial and administrative roles, as inconsistencies have emerged regarding fund management, staffing records and documentation associated with linked companies.

🔶 Nine Shell Companies Under Scanner

During the search operations, investigators identified nine suspected shell companies connected to the institution. Major red flags observed include:

• Companies registered at the same address with no staff or physical presence.
• Common or recycled mobile numbers and email IDs used across multiple entities.
• No EPFO/ESIC records despite claims of large-scale operations.
• Common directors/signatories, with weak or inconsistent KYC details.
• Bare-minimum salary transfers with no real HR activity.
• Similar incorporation timelines and frequently shared contact data.

Preliminary findings suggest these companies may have been created to route funds, conceal financial trails or facilitate questionable transactions possibly linked to the blast conspiracy.

🔶 Fear and Uncertainty Grips Al-Falah Campus

As the institution emerges at the centre of the suspected white-collar terror module, anxiety has spread among students and faculty. The raids coinciding with the ongoing examination period has further complicated the situation.

According to sources quoted by PTI, while the administration is attempting to maintain normalcy in classes and hostels, several students have already returned home, fearing further disruptions or escalation in the probe.

🔶 University Chairman Summoned

Delhi Police have issued two summons to Chairman Javed Ahmad Siddiqui regarding ongoing investigations into the Faridabad terror module and two separate cases involving alleged forgery and cheating by university-linked individuals.

Officials believe Siddiqui’s statement is crucial to explain discrepancies observed in the institution’s structures, its financial ecosystem and the activities of persons associated with the university during the timeline of the conspiracy.

🔶 Amit Shah: “Culprits will be traced from the depths of Patal”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah vowed that those responsible for the blast will be tracked down and punished with the “strictest legal action”. He reiterated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is committed to eradicating terrorism from its roots, and no perpetrator or sponsor will be spared.

🔶 Background: The Red Fort Car Bomb Blast

On November 10, a high-intensity blast ripped through a parked Hyundai i20 near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station. The explosion killed 13 people, injured more than 20, and burned several nearby vehicles.

The blast created panic across central Delhi, prompting a multi-agency investigation. The Union Cabinet has officially classified the incident as a terror attack, directing agencies to pursue the case with “utmost urgency, coordination and professionalism.”

🔶 What Happens Next?

With raids expanding and multiple agencies joining the probe, investigators are now focused on:

• Tracing the funding network behind the explosion.
• Verifying the role of the suspected shell companies.
• Examining the involvement of academic or administrative personnel.
• Identifying foreign or interstate money routes, if any.
• Establishing whether the blast is part of a larger planned terror module.

Senior officials have hinted that more arrests and raids are likely as the probe deepens.