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Significant Breakthrough in Red Fort Blast Investigation: TATP Explosive Linked to Terrorist

The investigation into the Red Fort explosion has uncovered significant evidence linking the attack to TATP explosives, associated with the terrorist Umar Mohammad of Jaish-e-Mohammed. TATP, known for its extreme volatility and minimal trace post-explosion, poses a severe threat in terrorist activities. This article delves into the nature of TATP, its explosive capabilities, and the implications of its use in attacks. With insights into the potential damage caused by even small quantities, the findings raise critical concerns about security and the planning behind such attacks. Read on to explore the details of this alarming discovery.
By Ambika Singh Nov 17, 2025, 14:23 IST
Significant Breakthrough in Red Fort Blast Investigation: TATP Explosive Linked to Terrorist

Key Findings in the Red Fort Blast Investigation



Security agencies have made a crucial discovery in the investigation of the Red Fort explosion. The terrorist Umar Mohammad, linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, is suspected to be the 'shoe bomb attacker'. Explosive materials were found concealed within a shoe in his vehicle, raising concerns about a potential blast. TATP, a highly dangerous explosive, has been utilized in terrorist attacks globally.


Understanding TATP: The 'Mother of Satan'

TATP (Triacetone Triperoxide) is a homemade explosive known for its extreme instability and danger. It is referred to as the 'Mother of Satan' due to its ability to detonate from minimal heat, friction, or static electricity. The chemicals required to produce TATP are readily available, making it a preferred choice for terrorists and sleeper cells.


TATP has been associated with numerous attacks in London, Paris, and the Middle East. Its explosive power is significant, yet it leaves minimal traces post-explosion, complicating investigations. Groups like Jaish often use it for large-scale attacks. Experts suggest that even a mere 10 grams of TATP can cause substantial destruction.


Why is TATP So Dangerous?

The explosive velocity of TATP is approximately 5300 meters per second, slightly less than that of TNT. Its potency is estimated to be between 55% to 70% of TNT's effectiveness, meaning that 10 grams of TATP can have an impact equivalent to 6 to 7 grams of TNT. Although this quantity seems small, terrorists often conceal it in shoes or bags.


Impact of a 10-Gram TATP Explosion: Reach and Damage

Calculations based on scientific formulas indicate that a 10-gram TATP explosion affects only a limited area. If detonated in the air or on a surface, the lethal radius (15 psi pressure - lung injury, death) is merely 0.22 meters. This implies that individuals within 22 centimeters of the blast center could sustain severe injuries. Anyone holding it or hiding it in their shoes could face immediate fatality due to lung rupture and internal bleeding.


The injury radius (5 psi pressure - eardrum rupture, minor injuries) extends to 0.45 meters, meaning individuals standing 45 centimeters away could experience ear injuries, headaches, or mild burns. The damage radius (1 psi pressure - window breakage) reaches 0.91 meters, indicating that windows or light doors could shatter within this distance, but significant structural damage would be unlikely.


This assessment is based on Hopkins' scaling laws, which apply to small explosions. In the gram range (1-10 grams), the explosive wave diminishes rapidly. Beyond 1 meter, it behaves like a normal air wave.


Destruction Potential: Examples and Comparisons

The explosion of 10 grams of TATP is comparable to that of a small firecracker or grenade fragment. However, if metal shrapnel is involved, the damage could be more extensive.


For humans: Direct contact would likely result in death. Nearby individuals (1-2 people) could suffer serious injuries. In a crowded setting, if shrapnel is present, it could affect 5-10 people. In 2001, Richard Reid attempted a shoe bomb explosion with approximately 100 grams of TATP, but the blast was incomplete. Had it detonated fully, it could have killed 10-20 people on the plane.


For objects: Windows in a small room would shatter, and furniture could be displaced. However, cars or buildings would likely sustain minimal damage. The impact of the Red Fort explosion was limited to nearby objects.


In comparison, the lethality radius of 10 grams of TNT is 0.26 meters, while TATP's is 0.22 meters. Although TATP is more sensitive, it carries a higher risk of accidental detonation. Experts assert that TATP is ideal for small attacks due to its concealability, but larger quantities are needed for widespread devastation.


Evidence from Cars, Shoes, and Explosives

Investigators examined the blast site and discovered a shoe near the driver's seat of Umar Mohammad's i20 car, close to the front right tire. This shoe contained a metallic substance capable of causing an explosion. Traces of TATP were found on the blast site, tire, and shoe, confirming that Jaish terrorists had stockpiled significant amounts of TATP for a major attack. The Red Fort explosion involved TATP explosives combined with ammonium nitrate. Additional evidence of explosives was also found beneath the back seat of the car, indicating the meticulous planning behind the conspiracy.


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