Delhi Police special cell arrests two ISIS-linked suspects plotting IED blasts at a South Delhi mall and park ahead of Diwali; investigation underway.
Delhi Police
Delhi Police’s Special Cell on Friday said it has foiled a planned terror attack targeting a busy South Delhi mall and a public park during Diwali after arresting two suspected operatives. The two men — taken into custody in separate operations in Delhi and Bhopal — had carried out reconnaissance of crowded spots and were reportedly building a timer-based IED, prompting an urgent counter-terror response.
Police recovered incriminating material during searches, including extremist videos and documents that suggest an ISIS-inspired motivation and training for fidayeen-style violence. Officials said the suspects had been preparing for attacks timed to the festival’s high footfall, a tactic attackers use to maximise casualties and disruption. Security agencies have opened a broader probe into handlers, supply chains for explosive components, and possible local networks.
Authorities emphasised that quick intelligence sharing and surveillance prevented a large-scale attack. Delhi Police sources said one suspect was detained earlier this month from Sadiq Nagar and the second from Bhopal after follow-up leads; forensic analysis and digital forensics are now central to tracing communications and sources of radicalisation. The Special Cell is coordinating with central agencies to map any wider connections.
The arrests come as city authorities ramp up security for Diwali, with extra deployment in malls, markets and public parks. For residents and visitors, the message from officials is clear: vigilance and timely tips can disrupt plots; for policymakers, the episode underlines the continued need for counter-radicalisation, online monitoring, and tightened controls on explosive precursors.
