NIA Nabs Key Conspirator in Bengaluru Cafe Blast Following Multi-State Raids

Bengaluru: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday arrested a key suspect linked to the explosion at Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru on March 1. Identified as Muzammil Shareef, the arrest came after NIA operations across 18 locations, spanning Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh.

The blast, caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), occurred at a quick-service eatery in Bengaluru’s Brookefield area, injuring ten individuals. NIA has taken charge of the investigation since March 3, identifying primary suspect Mussavir Shazeeb Hussain and another alleged conspirator, Abdul Matheen Taha, who remain at large.

Muzammil Shareef is believed to have provided logistical support to the perpetrators. Raids on March 17 targeted the suspects’ residences and other relevant locations, resulting in the seizure of digital devices and cash.

The main suspect, seen wearing a cap and mask, planted the low-intensity bomb in a backpack at the cafe. NIA has offered a Rs 10 lakh reward for information leading to the bomber’s arrest, releasing CCTV footage for identification.