Mumbai: In a major breakthrough in the August 25 Mumbai twin blast case, police on September 12 night shot dead Nasir, the mastermind behind the incident, along with a gangster in an encounter.

Acting on a tip-off that Nasir, wanted in connection with the blasts which killed 52 people, along with another gangster, would assemble near Ruparel College in suburban Matunga, police laid a trap. On seeing the duo, police asked them to surrender.

However, they fired at the police team, led by Prafulla Bhosle of Ghatkopar Crime Branch, which hit back by opening fire, police said.

The duo was taken to a nearby hospital where they were declared dead before admission, police said.

Joint Commissioner of Police Satyapal Singh the police recovered 92 gelatin sticks, eight detonators, two alarm clocks and two American revolvers from Nasir and his accomplice.

He said the duo was planning to set off explosions.

Nasir's accomplice has not been identified.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Chhagan Bhujbal said Nasir played a "very important role" in the twin blasts and police was searching for him for many days.

"It is a big achievement for Mumbai Police," he said.

PTI