New Delhi: Preliminary investigations in the
Delhi High Court bomb blast have indicated that "nitrate-based
explosive" laced with PETN, another deadly explosive, was
used.
Secretary Internal Security U K Bansal while briefing the
reporters on the progress made in the blast probe said blast
created a small crater at the place where the explosive charge
is suspected to have been kept in a brief case near the
reception of the High Court.
"The examination of the scene of blast indicates towards
the use of nitrate-based explosives with traces of PETN
(Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate)," he said.
PETN is one of the most deadly explosive which is used by
terrorists across the globe. Its use was found in the shoe
bomber case of 2001 in the US, in 2009 Christmas Day bomb plot
in the Philippines, and in the 2010 cargo plane bomb plot in
London and Dubai.
"A forensic team of CFSL, Delhi, has collected forensic
evidence from the spot which is being examined for clues. The
NSG post blast investigation team has also collected relevant
traces residue etc. from the spot and is conducting its own
forensic examination. The reports of this scientific
examination will be available to the NIA shortly," he said.
Bansal said Delhi Police has been put on high alert and
vigorous investigations are in progress including checking of
guest houses, hotels, bus stands, railway stations and
airports.
Bansal said all entry and exist routes are also being put
under extensive surveillance and checking.
"Neighbouring states have also been asked to send their
teams of ATS experts to examine the scene of the blast and
assist in the investigation," he said.
Bansal said 11 persons have died in the blast and 76
others have been injured.
"Most of the injured people have been admitted in the RML
Hospital, while some others are receiving treatment at other
hospitals including AIIMS, Moolchand Hospital, Sir Ganga Ram
Hospital etc. The condition of some of the injured is reported
to be critical. In all cases of injured people where surgery
was required the same has been performed or is being done
now," he said.
Bansal said The investigation of this case has been
transferred to the NIA by the Union Government in exercise of
its powers under the NIA Act. NIA has requested the Delhi
Government and Delhi Police to associate and assist them in
the investigation.
PTI
