Preliminary investigations in the Delhi High Court blast have indicated that a nitrate-based explosive,laced with another deadly substance PETN,was used in the bomb. Secretary,Internal Security,U K Bansal said the blast created a small crater at the place where the explosive charge was suspected to have been kept in a briefcase near the reception of the High Court. The examination of the scene of blast indicates 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 the Delhi Police to associate and assist them in the investigation.
