New Delhi:  The Delhi Police have formed a special 500-member team to investigate the powerful car explosion near the Red Fort metro station that killed at least eight people and injured more than twenty others on Monday evening.

The blast occurred around 6.50 pm in a white Hyundai i20 parked close to the Red Fort metro gate, one of the busiest areas in Old Delhi. The explosion triggered a massive fire that damaged nearby vehicles and caused panic among commuters and tourists.

Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora confirmed that the newly formed investigation team will include members from the Special Cell, Crime Branch, and Forensic Department. The team will coordinate with national security agencies to trace the source of the explosives and identify those responsible.

According to CCTV footage, the car had been parked in the same location for several hours before the explosion. Investigators have found that the vehicle changed ownership multiple times in recent months, raising suspicion of a larger conspiracy.

The blast site has been sealed for forensic examination, and debris samples have been sent to laboratories for chemical analysis. Police have also launched a citywide search to locate the person who parked the car near the metro station.

The explosion has prompted the government to tighten security across Delhi and neighbouring states. Additional checkpoints have been set up near metro stations, airports, and crowded markets.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and assured that the culprits would face strict punishment. Home Minister Amit Shah held an emergency meeting with top officials to review the security situation and instructed agencies to submit daily progress reports.

Eyewitnesses described moments of fear as the explosion sent shockwaves through the area, shattering windows and setting vehicles ablaze. Firefighters and rescue teams managed to control the flames within an hour.

Authorities have urged residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activity as the massive 500-member investigation team continues its work to uncover the motive and those behind the deadly Delhi blast.