New Delhi:
The explosion near the Israeli Embassy in Delhi on Tuesday evening bears striking similarities to the IED blast at the same location in 2021. Delhi Police and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) have drawn significant parallels between the two incidents, both of which took place in the vicinity from the Israeli embassy. diplomatic enclave in Chanakyapuri.
The blast occurred Tuesday about a kilometer from the Israeli embassy and prompted a rapid response from several law enforcement agencies. Chanakyapuri, which is home to numerous embassies including those of the United States, United Kingdom and Germany, is now under heightened security.
The NIA has highlighted striking similarities between the recent blast and the IED blast near the Israeli Embassy on January 29, 2021. Both incidents involve suspects conducting painstaking reconnaissance of CCTV camera locations, fleeing in a car and ultimately taking refuge search in the Jamia area of the national capital. Despite the identification of suspects in the 2021 case, no arrests have been made to date.
Both agencies also share the discovery of typewritten letters at the explosion sites, which contained threatening language, including references to “jihad” against Israel. The recent letter, which claims he is associated with an organization called Sir Allah Resistance, contained the phrase 'Allah hu Akbar'.
Safety measures in Chanakyapuri
Chanakyapuri, a crucial diplomatic hub, is under constant surveillance by more than a hundred CCTV cameras. The Diplomatic Cell, a specialized wing of the Delhi Police, maintains strict security measures in the area, including a ban on vehicle parking and photography. Quick Response Teams (QRT) and vans patrol the region 24/7.
Security measures for the diplomatic enclave include coordination between the Delhi Police Special Cell, the Intelligence Bureau and other law enforcement agencies. The Israeli embassy itself is responsible for internal security.
Anti-Terror Agency investigation
After the blast on Tuesday, the NIA has offered a reward of Rs 10 lakh for information leading to the identification of the suspects. The investigation is actively focused on the typewritten letter found at the scene of the explosion, which contained explicit threats.
This morning, the NIA revisited the blast site and collected samples of grass and leaves for forensic analysis.
As security concerns escalate, authorities are stepping up efforts to ensure the safety of the diplomatic enclave and its residents.
Delhi Police is also scouring CCTV footage and analyzing mobile phone data to track down potential suspects.
Authorities have compiled a list of people spotted near the site shortly before the explosion and identified through CCTV footage. Statements were also recorded from at least ten security guards and passers-by who reported hearing the explosion and seeing smoke.