In Bengaluru, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) made a significant move on Tuesday, March 12, apprehending an individual from Bellary, Karnataka. The operation unfolded as NIA officials conducted a raid at the youth’s residence around 4 am.
Subsequently, the individual was escorted to Bengaluru for further interrogation, aiming to ascertain any potential ties to the Rameshwaram blast incident.
The blast, which occurred on March 1 at the Rameswaram Cafe in Bengaluru’s Whitefield area, resulted in injuries to nine patrons. Despite the explosion being from an improvised low-intensity bomb, fortunately, no significant casualties were reported.
Authorities swiftly responded by registering a case under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and the Explosive Substances Act, with the Bengaluru CCB police spearheading the investigation.
Upon scrutinizing CCTV footage, it was discerned that the suspect had entered the cafe carrying a bag and departed alone. “An encouraging lead has surfaced in the recent Rameswaram Cafe blast case, and a collaborative investigation is underway between the state CCB and NIA teams,” declared G Parameshwara, Karnataka’s Home Minister.
A contingent of NIA officials, now at the forefront of the bomb blast probe, visited Rameswaram Cafe on March 5 to commence their inquiry. Led by NIA Superintendent of Police, three officers visited the cafe, gathering vital information from its staff.
Furthermore, the NIA has offered a substantial cash reward of Rs 10 lakhs to anyone providing credible information leading to the apprehension of the suspects.
On March 8, the NIA team detained two individuals suspected in connection with the case. Minaj, also known as Suleman, allegedly affiliated with the banned Islamic organization, Popular Front of India (PFI), was apprehended from Bellary Central Jail alongside his associate, Syed Sameer. Both were detained on charges of conspiring to perpetrate acts of sabotage within the state.