NIA Announces ₹10 Lakh Reward for Information on Rameshwaram Cafe Blast Suspect

New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has announced a ₹10 lakh cash reward for any information leading to the arrest of the individual responsible for planting the low-intensity IED in a Rameshwaram cafe, resulting in a blast on March 1.

The explosion left at least 10 people injured. The suspect, depicted in a sketch released by the NIA, remains at large as the manhunt intensifies by both the Central Crime Branch and the NIA.

Despite no arrests being made yet, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara expressed confidence in the progress of the city police’s investigation, noting that vital clues have been discovered, bringing them closer to cracking the case. The NIA commenced its probe following directives from the Union Home Ministry after the Karnataka government declined to hand over the investigation to the central agency.

The cafe, closed since the incident, is scheduled to reopen on March 8. The blast occurred during the lunch hour rush, causing injuries to 10 individuals, although none were severe. Analysis of CCTV footage revealed that the suspect, described as a tall, slim man aged between 30 to 40 years, entered the cafe an hour before the explosion. He briefly stayed inside, leaving behind a bag containing the IED with a timer. The suspect ordered food but did not consume it.

The NIA’s ‘wanted’ notice confirms that the individual depicted in the viral photo from CCTV footage is the prime suspect. While earlier images showed him wearing a mask, the latest photo released by the NIA provides a clearer view of his face. Informants’ identities will be kept confidential, as per the NIA’s assurance.