Delhi Blast: Link of Threema app in Red Fort blast, know why Swiss messaging platform is banned in India?
A surprising digital angle has emerged in the investigation into the car bombing near the Red Fort. Security forces have revealed that three doctors involved in the attack—Dr. Umar Un Nabi, Dr. Mujhmil Ganai, and Dr. Shaheen Shahid continued to communicate via a Swiss messaging app called Threema. These three accused are said to be associated with Al-Falah University in Faridabad. Threema's extremely strong encryption and user-anonymity system made it extremely challenging for investigating agencies to apprehend them.
How does Threema's secret network work?
The investigation revealed that the accused had created a closed communication network using the app's security structure. The unique feature of Threema is that it requires neither a mobile number nor an email address. A single random ID can operate the entire account. This is why the suspects remained elusive for so long.
Sources claim that the three even went so far as to create their own private Threema server. Through this server, they shared locations, maps, files, and planning related to the blast. End-to-end encryption, the policy of not storing metadata, and the ability to delete chats from both sides made it difficult for forensic teams to trace any evidence.
Investigation teams are now trying to determine whether this private server was located in India or abroad, and whether there are other people involved in this module.
Why is Threema banned in India?
Threema is not a new name. The government banned this app in May 2023 under Section 69A of the IT Act. The investigation found that several Pakistan-based groups were using such high-encryption apps to spread propaganda and establish contacts in India. Along with Threema, apps like Zangi, Briar, Nandbox, SafeSwiss, BChat, Element, Second Line, IMO, and MediaFire were also banned because monitoring these platforms is virtually impossible.
Even though the app is banned, agencies suspect that the accused circumvented the country's restrictions by using a VPN. They were able to use it unhindered while traveling abroad, especially to Turkey and the UAE.
Threema's payment system also makes tracking difficult. Users can send cash to Switzerland or pay with Bitcoin to purchase the app. Neither method creates a digital record.
Technology Becomes a Weapon for Terrorists
The Red Fort blast investigation clearly shows that terrorism is now deeply entrenched not only on the ground but also in the digital world. An app designed for privacy and secure chatting can, in the wrong hands, become a tool for planning major attacks. As forensic teams unravel the layers of digital evidence, it is clear that the fight against terrorism will become even more complex in the future.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
