Two cartridges, including a live ammunition, and samples of two different types of explosives are among more than 40 samples that have been collected by the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team from the blast site near the Red Fort, officials said on Wednesday, reported news agency PTI.
Preliminary analysis suggests that one of the explosive samples appears to be ammonium nitrate, they said.
On Monday, 360 kg of ammonium nitrate was recovered from Faridabad during an investigation in Faridabad when Dr Muzammil Ganaie and Dr Shaheen Sayeed, both connected to the Al Falah university were arrested.
“The second explosive sample is believed to be more powerful than ammonium nitrate. Its exact composition will be confirmed after detailed forensic examination,” an official said, reported PTI.
According to the officials, the FSL team found the cartridges while inspecting the spot.
More than 40 samples have been collected till now.
A high-intensity explosion ripped through a slow moving vehicle near Red Fort traffic signal on Monday, claiming 12 lives.
Further investigation is underway to determine the nature of the explosives and how they were used in the blast, the officials added, reported PTI.
The FSL has constituted a special team to analyse the samples. The team has been directed to expedite the examination and submit the report without delay, officials said.
The lab has been functional round the clock since the blast.
Delhi Police on high alert, checking continues in national capital
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police has been put on high alert and massive checking drives are being carried out across the national capital following the powerful explosion near the Red Fort metro station that left 12 people dead and many injured, officials said on Wednesday, reported PTI.
Police personnel, along with paramilitary forces, are deployed in large numbers at all the entry and exit points of Delhi. Vehicles entering and leaving the city are being thoroughly checked as part of the intensified security measures, they said, reported PTI.
Senior police officers are personally supervising the security checks at interstate borders, including Ghazipur, Singhu, Tikri, and Badarpur.
Vehicles are being checked randomly at markets, metro stations, railway terminals and bus stands to ensure that no suspicious movement goes unnoticed.
A senior police officer said that all district units and specialised wings have been directed to remain on alert and increase patrolling in crowded areas, especially near tourist spots, malls and religious places.
“We are taking no chances. The focus is on maintaining public confidence and ensuring that the city remains secure,” the officer said, reported PTI.
Sniffer dogs, metal detectors and anti-sabotage teams are pressed into service at sensitive locations. The police have also asked residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or persons immediately through emergency helplines.
(With inputs from PTI)