Bengaluru Cafe Blast: NIA Identifies Main Accused, Intensifies Manhunt

New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made a breakthrough in the Bengaluru cafe blast case, identifying Mussavir Hussain Shazib as the prime suspect and Abdul Matheen Taahaa as his accomplice. Both individuals hail from Thirthahalli in Karnataka’s Shivamogga district.

In a press release, the NIA spokesperson revealed their ongoing efforts to apprehend the absconding accused. Searches were conducted across 18 locations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh. The agency has also announced a reward of Rs. 10 lakh for information leading to each suspect’s arrest.

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— NIA India (@NIA_India) April 5, 2024

The blast, which occurred on March 1 at a café on ITPL Road, Brookefield, resulted in several injuries.

Muzammil Shareef, a resident of Khalsa, Chikkamagaluru, was arrested on March 26 for allegedly providing logistical support to the main suspects. He has been examined in police custody.

NIA announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for information leading to the arrest of each absconder on March 29. Additionally, the agency has been summoning and questioning acquaintances, including school and college friends, of both the absconding and arrested individuals to gather crucial evidence.

Given the sensitive nature of the case and the potential risks to witnesses, the NIA emphasized the importance of refraining from sharing unverified news items that could jeopardize the investigation.