India’s federal anti-terror agency, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), has arrested a Kashmir resident in connection with the deadly car blast near Delhi’s historic Red Fort last week. The explosion killed eight people and injured at least 20 others.

Arrest of Amir Rashid Ali

The NIA identified the suspect as Amir Rashid Ali, a resident of Pampore in Indian Kashmir. He was arrested in Delhi for allegedly conspiring with the car’s driver involved in the attack.

Authorities reported that the vehicle used in the blast was registered under Ali’s name. The agency claims that Ali assisted the alleged suicide bomber, identified as Umar Un Nabi from Pulwama district, South Kashmir, in acquiring the car.

Role in the Attack

According to the NIA, Ali came to Delhi to facilitate the purchase of the car, which was later used as a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) to carry out the attack.

Investigators have also seized another vehicle owned by Nabi for forensic examination. So far, 73 witnesses have been interrogated, including individuals injured in the blast.

Government Response

The Indian government has officially declared the Red Fort explosion a terror incident. Authorities have vowed to bring all perpetrators to justice swiftly.

This incident marks the first major explosion in Delhi since 2011, raising concerns about security in the capital city.