PETN mixed with nitrate used in blast: MHA

NEW DELHI: Preliminary investigations in the Delhi High Court bomb blast have indicated that "nitrate-based explosive" laced with PETN, another deadly explosive, was used.

Secretary Internal Security U K Bansal while briefing the reporters on the progress made in the blast probe said blast created a small crater at the place where the explosive charge is suspected to have been kept in a brief case near the reception of the High Court.

"The examination of the scene of blast indicates towards 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.