A “dummy terrorist” from Delhi Police’s Special Cell managed to enter the Red Fort carrying fake explosives. He reached the children’s enclosure during the Independence Day celebrations without being stopped. This incident is the third security lapse during recent mock drills held at the Red Fort ahead of August 15.

Operative Took Selfies and Videos During Breach

The dummy operative’s task was to test security readiness. An official familiar with the case said the man even took selfies and recorded videos among security staff before leaving the area.

Police Stress Drills Are Routine and Mostly Successful

Deputy Commissioner of Police (North), Raja Banthia, said these drills are routine. “We continue to do them to rule out any shortcomings and we have conducted several successful drills where the mock operatives were caught,” he told reporters.

Several Mock Drills Have Caught Intruders

An officer involved in the matter revealed that at least 15 mock drills have been completed successfully. “Three subversion attempt mock drills and two dummy infiltration drills by Special Branch, nine dummy infiltration attempts by local vigilance branch, and one subversion attempt mock drill by Special Cell have been successful, where the dummy suspects were caught,” the officer explained.

Details of the Breach Incident

A senior Delhi Police officer said the dummy operative entered on Friday evening by climbing a wall near the petrol pump on Nishad Raj Road. He then reached the high-security seating area and “spent considerable time loitering” before leaving.

The Special Cell later sent photos and videos of the security breach to the police headquarters. Following this, the police took corrective action. This information was also sent to the Prime Minister’s Security Unit, as required by protocol.

No Disciplinary Action Yet; Earlier Suspensions Over Security Lapses

As of Sunday, no officials were disciplined for the breach. Last week, however, seven police personnel were suspended after the arrest of five Bangladeshi nationals allegedly living illegally near the fort. Two live cartridges were also found on the premises.