The Anti-Terrorist Squad draws up list of 10 suspects

MUMBAI: The Anti-Terrorist Squad of the state police has drawn up a list of 10 people from Mumbai who, it believes, helped in the July 11 serial bomb blasts. But it is yet to make any arrests.

A senior ATS officer told DNA, “Their role was pivotal as they worked as members of a single team.” But he refused to say if their role ended with providing logistical support to a “few others”. “Our investigation now centres on picking up at least a couple of these people,” he said.

Meanwhile, information from the Intelligence Bureau suggests that those at the “execution end” (which possibly included the short-listed 10) were well trained in the science of using offensive intelligence and aspects of reconnaissance and the use of safe houses.

“The sheer professionalism with which the acts were orchestrated took us by surprise,” admitted another ATS officer.

Joint Commissioner of Police KP Raghuvanshi, who heads the ATS, said, “We are analysing vital clues that point to the involvement of local groups.” Police are also seeking help from the Delhi-based Bomb Data Centre and the National Security Guard.

Meanwhile, there is some confusion about the first forensic report, which said the explosive used was probably ammonium nitrate, not RDX. Some experts have argued that the impact would not have been so great if it wasn’t RDX.