A multi-state counter-terror operation by the Delhi Police has uncovered a suspected radical module with a direct link to last year’s deadly Red Fort blast, marking a significant breakthrough in an ongoing security probe. Officials on Saturday said four youths have been arrested for allegedly radicalising and recruiting individuals online to build an Islamic state through ‘jihad’, with investigators establishing a connection to the blast that killed 11 people and left several injured.
According to the Special Cell, one of the accused had conducted a reconnaissance visit to the Red Fort in December 2025. He had shared a photograph of the monument with a black flag atop it, using the image to incite and influence others online. Police said this activity has strengthened the suspected link between the group and the earlier attack.
IED materials recovered
The investigation revealed that members of the module were actively gathering materials to assemble improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Officials said two of the accused had begun sourcing components locally to build a remote-controlled explosive device, which could be deployed for a future terrorist attack.
Search operations led to the recovery of IED-making materials and mobile phones containing incriminating data. The accused allegedly shared images of ball bearings, nails, and modified toy cars, components commonly used in crude explosive devices, within closed online groups.
Online radicalisation and funding network
Police said the group operated through encrypted social media platforms, where members circulated extremist content and attempted to recruit others. One accused allegedly called on followers to collect weapons and explosives for “Ghazwa-e-Hind” and shared bank account details to raise funds in support of ‘jihad’.
Another member is said to have promised arms training to recruits in exchange for money, indicating attempts to expand the network’s operational capabilities.
The four accused and their roles:
-
Mosaib Ahmad: Investigators identified him as a key operative responsible for assembling IED components. A mechanic by profession, he used his technical skills to piece together devices and worked closely with co-accused Mohammad Hammad, who allegedly sourced and circulated explosive materials.
-
Mohammad Hammad: He is accused of procuring and sharing materials required for making improvised explosive devices. Police said he circulated images of components within closed groups and coordinated with Mosaib Ahmad for assembling the devices.
-
Sheikh Imran: A resident of Odisha, Imran allegedly carried out reconnaissance of potential targets, including the Red Fort. Investigators said he discussed attacks on high-profile locations such as the Ram Mandir, Parliament, and military installations. Born in Bhubaneswar, he worked as a security guard and delivery boy, and is believed to have been radicalised after consuming online sermons from 2024 before connecting with the module via social media.
-
Mohammad Sohail: A plumber from Bihar, Sohail is accused of handling online mobilisation. He allegedly created multiple social media accounts to spread extremist propaganda and recruit youth. In March 2026, he is said to have urged followers to gather weapons and explosives for “Ghazwa-e-Hind” and shared bank details to raise funds for the cause.
Multi-state arrest operation
The four accused were arrested from Maharashtra, Odisha, and Bihar by a Special Cell team led by Inspectors Vinay Pal and Manoj Kumar, including ACP Ashish Kumar. A case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and further investigation is underway to trace additional links and possible collaborators.
Among the arrested youths, Mosaib Ahmad, Jalaluddin Siddiqui, and Mohammad Hammad were residents of Maharashtra. While Sheikh Imran belonged to Odisha, Mohammad Sohail hailed from Bihar.
Officials said the arrests have likely prevented potential attacks, while the probe continues to examine the full extent of the network and its connections.