NIA Raids Across Four States in Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe Blast Case

NIA conducts raids in four states to probe Bengaluru cafe blast case, aiming to uncover the conspiracy behind the attack and identify accomplices.

On Tuesday, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) carried out extensive raids across multiple states to investigate the conspiracy behind the Rameshwaram Cafe blast in Bengaluru. The coordinated searches took place in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, aiming to uncover the entire plot and identify conspirators aiding the accused from abroad.

Details of the Raids

NIA teams searched 11 locations connected to suspects involved in the case. These locations included the premises of individuals previously convicted in the 2012 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) conspiracy case in Bengaluru and Hubli. The searches resulted in the seizure of various digital devices and documents, which are now under thorough examination by the agency.

Background of the Case

The blast occurred on March 1 at Rameshwaram Cafe on ITPL Road, Brookefield in Bengaluru, causing injuries to several customers and staff members and significant property damage. The NIA took over the case on March 3 and intensified the investigation to uncover the broader conspiracy.

On April 12, the NIA arrested two key suspects: Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, the alleged mastermind, and Mussavir Hussain Shazib, the purported perpetrator of the attack. Both were apprehended in Kolkata, where they were living under false identities. The suspects are residents of Thirthahalli in Shivamogga district, Karnataka, and are believed to be part of a Shivamogga-based Islamic State module.

Previous Related Incidents

Officials noted that another member of the same module, Shariq, had carried out a blast in Mangaluru on November 19, 2022. This connection has further underscored the importance of dismantling the network involved in these activities.

Future Steps

The NIA's investigation continues as they analyze the seized materials to identify and apprehend additional conspirators. The agency's efforts highlight the ongoing challenge of addressing terrorism-related activities and ensuring national security.

The searches included locations in Bengaluru's Kumaraswamy Layout and Banashankari areas, among others. The NIA remains committed to uncovering all aspects of the conspiracy and bringing all involved parties to justice.