2 Jaish-linked suspects held in Mumbai for plotting toy car terror attack in Delhi

In a major counter-terror operation, the Delhi Police Special Cell and the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) have arrested two suspected terrorists from Mumbai for allegedly plotting a novel “toy car” improvised explosive device (IED) attack in the national capital. 

The accused, identified as Mossab Ahdam alias Kalam Kalyan and Mohammad Hamad Kollara, were apprehended during a coordinated operation and subsequently moved to Delhi for sustained interrogation.

Investigators believe the suspects were in advanced stages of planning an attack that could have used a remote-controlled toy vehicle fitted with explosives, a tactic seen in global terror incidents for its ability to evade suspicion.

According to officials, preliminary findings suggest both individuals were highly radicalised and had alleged links with Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) as well as the Islamic State.

Police sources also indicated their involvement in online extremist ecosystems, including groups such as “Mission Khilafat” and “Soldiers of Prophet”, which are known to facilitate recruitment, indoctrination, and operational guidance.

Security agencies are now probing whether the duo were acting independently or as part of a larger module with handlers based abroad. Digital forensics teams are examining seized electronic devices, encrypted chats, and financial trails to identify possible funding channels and logistical support networks.

Officials said the use of a toy car as a delivery mechanism points to evolving terror methodologies aimed at exploiting everyday objects to bypass security checks in crowded urban environments.

The alleged plot, if executed, could have targeted high-footfall areas in Delhi, raising concerns about civilian safety.

The arrests come amid heightened vigilance by central and state agencies over potential lone-wolf attacks and digitally coordinated terror activities.

Intelligence inputs in recent months have flagged attempts by extremist outfits to radicalise youth through online propaganda and encrypted platforms.

Further investigations are underway to establish the full scope of the conspiracy, identify additional operatives, and determine whether similar plots were being planned in other cities.

Authorities have not ruled out more arrests as the probe deepens.