ISI’s Direct Role Emerges in Red Fort Blast Probe; Faridabad Module Traced to Pakistan Handler
Image via IANS
New Delhi, Nov 24 (TheTrendingPeople.com): The ongoing investigation into the Red Fort blast has uncovered strong evidence pointing to a direct operational link with Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). According to senior officials, the scale, precision and secrecy of the entire plot—including the establishment of the Faridabad module—indicate institutional backing at the highest levels within Pakistan’s intelligence network.
Investigators now believe that the module was designed to carry out at least 200 coordinated blasts across targeted zones, mirroring the structured planning seen in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
A Foreign Handler at the Core: ISI Operative Identified
Officials have confirmed that a Pakistani national, identified as Faisal Iqbal, played a crucial role in orchestrating the module. As per an Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer, Iqbal is an “ISI operative specifically tasked with setting up the Faridabad module, training recruits, and overseeing blast logistics.”
While his identity and role have been confirmed, agencies are still scrutinising whether Iqbal operated from within Pakistan or neighbouring Afghanistan. Early assessments suggest that the ISI intended to execute the operation from outside Pakistani territory to avoid any trace leading back to Islamabad.
Handlers, Encrypted Channels, and Coded Communication
3 Key Handlers Identified
The probe has identified three handlers involved in coordinating the plot:
- Faisal Iqbal (ISI operative) – Oversaw operations, set up module, issued technical instructions
- Ukasha – Based in Tora Bora mountains
- Hashim – Also operating from Tora Bora, involved in radicalisation
Investigators say all three handled different aspects of the operation, ranging from radicalisation to financial channels, secure communication mechanisms and operational readiness.
Telegram Channels, Discreet Communication
Interrogations and digital forensics have revealed that Iqbal instructed module members on:
- creating encrypted Telegram channels,
- deleting communication trails,
- concealing online behaviour, and
- establishing secure “one-way” messaging systems.
One official told TheTrendingPeople.com, “The instructions on building encrypted channels and wiping digital footprints clearly indicate professional intelligence involvement.”
Module Active Since 2019, Fully Operational by 2023
Preliminary findings suggest the module was under gradual construction since 2019, though actionable operational steps began in 2021.
By 2023, the Faridabad module was reportedly “fully functional,” equipped with explosives, logistics coordination and a defined operational chain of command.
Operation Mirrors Mumbai 26/11 in Planning Secrecy
Security agencies say the structure, training, and secrecy surrounding the module closely resemble the model used in the 2008 Mumbai attacks, where planning and execution were supervised by ISI and Pakistan Army officials.
According to a senior investigator:
“The precision, the multiple layers of handlers, and the secrecy indicate the involvement of highly trained ISI personnel. This was not the work of amateurs.”
The planning involved:
- ISI’s top rung
- Pakistan Army-linked support units
- dedicated logistic teams
- remote radicalisation units
Faridabad Module: 350 kg Ammonium Nitrate and Local Recruitment
Huge Explosive Haul
A breakthrough came when investigators recovered 350 kg of ammonium nitrate from a flat rented by Muzammil Ahmed Ganai in Faridabad. This cache confirmed the magnitude of the planned attack.
The Faridabad module was responsible for:
- assembling explosive devices,
- coordinating reconnaissance,
- managing logistics and movements,
- arranging local assistance.
Local Cleric Played Key Role: J&K’s Mufti Irfan Ahmed Wagay
Though the operation was largely foreign-controlled, the ISI sought a local facilitator to manage financial, motivational, and logistical needs.
They chose Mufti Irfan Ahmed Wagay, a cleric from Shopian, Jammu & Kashmir.
His responsibilities included:
- transfer of funds,
- weapons delivery,
- recruitment coordination,
- drafting Jaish-e-Mohammad propaganda material.
His posters appearing in Nowgam in October triggered a local investigation by the J&K Police, which eventually led to the unearthing of the Faridabad module.
Wagay also stayed in close touch with Dr. Shaheen Saeed, identified as the recruitment and radicalisation head of the network.
Key Accused: Drivers, Recruits, Radicalisers
Other identified conspirators include:
- Adeel Ahmed Rather – module member
- Dr. Umar Nabi – drove the i20 car that exploded near Red Fort
- Muzammil Ahmed Ganai – owner of the flat storing ammonium nitrate
Investigators are also analysing cross-border communication records, financial links, and digital archives to map out the full chain of connections.
Officials Warn of Larger Network, Possible Sleeper Cells
Sources say the Red Fort module may have been part of a wider operational network.
One official noted:
“The handlers ensured that the module remained undetected for years. This raises concerns about possible sleeper cells created simultaneously.”
The National Investigation Agency (NIA), IB, and other security units continue to conduct nationwide checks to determine whether additional modules or recruits were connected to the same network.
Analysis: What the Findings Mean for India’s Internal Security
Security experts believe this probe highlights:
- A shift in ISI tactics—preferring long-term, decentralised modules
- Increased radicalisation pipelines using foreign handlers
- Local collaborators recruited for logistics and operational cover
- Use of encrypted platforms to bypass surveillance
The Red Fort blast probe also underscores the importance of enhanced digital surveillance and counter radicalisation mechanisms to intercept emerging modules early.
Conclusion
The Red Fort blast investigation has exposed a sophisticated terror network deeply linked to Pakistan’s intelligence machinery. With ISI operative Faisal Iqbal emerging as the central figure and multiple handlers guiding operations from foreign soil, the probe marks a significant breakthrough in understanding the scale and ambition of the plot. Agencies are now expanding the investigation to dismantle any remaining modules or sleeper cells connected to this network.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The busting of the Faridabad module not only foiled a potential mass-casualty attack but also revealed the evolving strategy of cross-border terror networks. As agencies deepen their probe, the findings may reshape India’s counterterror strategy for years to come.