The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday carried out extensive raids on Al-Falah University in Faridabad, its Okhla office in Delhi, and premises linked to its promoters, as the probe into the 10 November high-intensity car blast near the Red Fort intensifies. The blast killed 13 people and injured several others, prompting one of the largest multi-agency investigations in recent years.

Raids began at 5am across 25 locations in Delhi-NCR, sources told PTI and ANI. The financial investigation now spans suspected shell companies, possible illegal funding channels, and alleged links between the institution and individuals involved in the so-called “white-collar” terror module.

ED flags discrepancies in university recognition

Initial findings from the search reportedly point to discrepancies in Al-Falah University’s UGC and NAAC recognition. Investigators are examining whether the institution complied with statutory norms, and whether individuals connected with it misrepresented credentials or used the university’s infrastructure for activities beyond academia.

Officials said they are cross-checking documentation related to accreditation, staffing patterns, financial audits, and regulatory filings. These checks form part of a broader effort to understand the extent of institutional oversight and detect possible misuse of educational platforms by radicalised entities.

Nine suspected shell firms under probe

One of the most significant developments is the ED’s scrutiny of nine companies registered at the same address and allegedly linked to the university’s promoters. According to investigators, these firms display several indicators typical of shell entities:

  • No functional office space or regular utility usage
  • The same phone numbers and email IDs used across multiple companies and accounts
  • No EPFO or ESIC filings despite the companies claiming sizeable operations
  • Overlapping directors or authorised signatories with incomplete KYC documents
  • Minimal salary payments through formal banking channels and absence of HR records
  • A pattern of swift, coordinated incorporation using identical contact details

Officials say these findings suggest the companies may have been created to obscure fund movements and facilitate covert financial operations.

Focus on ‘white-collar’ terror network

Investigating officers believe the Delhi blast probe has opened a window into a sophisticated radical network involving educated professionals, including doctors. Several arrests over the past week have highlighted the role of high-skilled individuals in the alleged terror module.

The suspected mastermind, Dr Umar Un Nabi—who died during the Red Fort explosion—was a former student of Al-Falah University. Multiple doctors associated with him have also been detained. Agencies say the recovered evidence indicates the existence of a carefully structured ecosystem using encrypted communication, fraudulent financial channels, and academic affiliations to create operational cover.

Significant evidence recovered

Multiple agencies working jointly have uncovered:

  • A vehicle directly linked to the Red Fort blast
  • Several improvised explosive devices (IEDs)
  • Thirty-two vehicles allegedly intended to be used for serial blasts
  • Considerable quantities of explosive material

Officials say the scale of materials recovered points to a planned multi-city attack, which was averted due to early interception and information sharing.

University’s response and arrests

The institution issued a public statement condemning the attack and reaffirming its commitment to national interests. The university administration said it is cooperating with authorities.

This development comes a day after the chancellor’s brother was arrested in Hyderabad in connection with older fraud cases dating back nearly 25 years. While unrelated to the blast, investigators say the arrest contributed to widening the spotlight on the university’s financial dealings.

Chancellor summoned twice

Delhi Police have issued two summons to the university’s chancellor to clarify inconsistencies in the institution’s operations and the roles of individuals allegedly linked to the suspects. Investigators are examining administrative decisions, fund flows, and internal communication records.

They are also analysing whether the university acted as a conduit—wittingly or unwittingly—for individuals who later joined the radical network.

Conclusion

With the ED raid uncovering multiple layers of organisational, financial, and academic irregularities, the Delhi blast investigation has now broadened beyond the incident itself. Authorities believe the probe may reveal a deeper terror network embedded within professional and academic spaces. More arrests and financial disclosures are expected as the inquiry progresses.