Delhi Police detained the owner of the car that exploded near the Red Fort on Monday evening. The explosion killed at least eight people and destroyed several vehicles in the busy area.

According to The Economic Times, officials identified the detained person as Md Salman, who was taken into custody in Gurugram, Haryana.

Car Sold Multiple Times

Police sources revealed that Salman had sold the vehicle earlier to a man named Devendra in Okhla. However, the car remained registered under Salman’s name and carried a Haryana registration number.

A senior police officer told ET, “Delhi Police along with Gurugram Police detained Md Salman on Monday and is questioning him about the car. He had sold it to a person in Okhla named Devendra. Later, the vehicle was again sold to someone in Ambala and police are tracing the people.”

Deadly Blast Near Red Fort

The blast occurred on Monday evening, during peak hours, near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station. The explosion destroyed several vehicles and caused chaos in the area.

Police officials confirmed that eight people died and 24 others were injured. The injured were taken to LNJP Hospital, just a few kilometres from the blast site.

Car Was Moving When It Exploded

Officials said the explosion took place in a moving Hyundai i20 that had three people inside. An investigator said, “The blast occurred in a moving Hyundai i20 car in which three people were sitting. We have not found any pellet or puncture in the body of the injured, which is unusual in a bomb blast. We are investigating all angles.”

Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha also confirmed that there were occupants in the vehicle at the time of the explosion.

High Alert in the Capital

Soon after the blast, authorities issued a high alert across Delhi. Security was strengthened at city borders, and police began intensive vehicle checks to prevent further incidents.

The explosion triggered panic among commuters and residents as flames spread to nearby cars. The sudden fire and chaos left many in shock, while emergency teams rushed to control the situation.

Investigation Underway

Police are now tracing the chain of vehicle ownership to identify who had possession of the car before the explosion. Forensic experts are also examining evidence from the site to determine whether the blast was caused by a mechanical fault or an explosive device.

Authorities have not ruled out any possibility, and the case is being treated with high priority due to its location and timing.