The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has intensified its efforts in the investigation of the Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast, releasing new photographs of the prime suspect linked to the incident that left 10 people injured. The anti-terror agency, taking over the case on March 3, has solicited public assistance in identifying the suspect believed to have planted an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in the bustling eatery on March 1.
CCTV footage obtained by investigators captured crucial moments, depicting the suspect boarding a bus approximately an hour following the blast at the cafe. The footage, timestamped at 2:03 pm on March 1, revealed the suspect, donning a T-shirt, cap, and facemask, abandoning a bag containing the explosive device inside the cafe.
Further footage from the same day, around 9 pm, revealed the suspect’s presence at a bus station, heightening concerns over his potential escape route. The NIA has announced a reward of ₹10 lakh for any valuable information leading to the identification and apprehension of the suspect.
Collaborating with the NIA, the Central Crime Branch of the Bengaluru police has made significant strides in the investigation. Two individuals, including a cloth merchant from Kaul Bazaar in Ballari district and a member associated with the banned Popular Front of India (PFI), have been arrested in connection with the case. Investigations suggest that the suspect altered his appearance post-incident, traversing through various locations, including Tumakuru, Ballari, Bidar, and Bhatkal, to evade detection.
In light of the incident, The Rameshwaram Cafe resumed operations today with heightened security measures. Metal detectors have been installed at the entrance, and patrons and staff are subjected to screening using handheld devices to ensure the safety of all individuals.
Raghavendra Rao, co-founder and CEO of The Rameshwaram Cafe, expressed the establishment’s commitment to bolstering security measures, stating, “We have strengthened our security team and are also trying to set up a separate panel involving ex-servicemen who could train our security guards at all our branches.”
The release of new photographs by the NIA underscores the urgency of apprehending the suspect and bringing them to justice, as authorities continue to pursue leads and gather evidence in the ongoing investigation into the Bengaluru cafe blast.
Sources By Agencies
