The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has detained a man believed to be associated with the primary suspect in the recent explosion at Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru, which resulted in injuries to 10 individuals.
Identified as Shabir, the apprehension took place in Ballary earlier today. Sources within the police department suggest that Shabir is suspected to have acted as an accomplice to the main suspect, who was captured on security camera footage leaving a bag at the cafe just prior to the detonation.
The anti-terror agency, NIA, which assumed control of the investigation on March 3, has urged the public to assist in identifying the main suspect, who allegedly planted an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in the bustling eatery on March 1.
Additional security camera footage from the day of the incident depicts the suspect loitering within a bus station around 9 pm. Earlier, approximately an hour post-explosion, the suspect was observed boarding a bus. Investigators revealed that following the blast, the suspect changed attire and utilized public transportation to traverse various locations.
In response to the security concerns stemming from the attack, Rameshwaram Cafe resumed operations with heightened safety measures. Metal detectors have been installed at the entrance, and customers are subject to screening using handheld devices to ensure the safety of all patrons and staff.
Divya Raghavendra Rao, the owner of the cafe, recounted the chaotic aftermath of the explosion. She mentioned that the suspect had consumed rava idli before leaving the bag in the restaurant. Rao expressed her shock upon learning about the blast and underscored the importance of maintaining vigilance in such situations.
