NIA Takes Custody of Ballari Terror Suspect in Rameshwaram Cafe Blast

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken custody of a terror suspect, currently incarcerated, in connection with the recent bombing at Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru. Identified as Minhaj alias Mohammed Sulaiman, a 26-year-old cloth merchant from Ballari, he was initially arrested on December 18, 2023. Following a warrant from the NIA special court, Sulaiman has been placed under NIA custody until March 9. This action comes seven days after the explosion that left ten people injured, including three cafe employees.

In December 2023, Minhaj was apprehended along with four others from Karnataka by the NIA on suspicions of planning Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blasts. The NIA filed a case against them on December 14, 2023, suspecting their involvement in plotting terror acts using explosive materials to craft IEDs.

G Parameshwara, the Karnataka Home Minister, disclosed on March 8 that investigators delving into the cafe blast have traced the suspected bomber’s movements. He stated, “The suspect took a bus towards Tumakuru and changed attire thereafter. Authorities are verifying his trail from Tumakuru to Ballari.” Reports indicate that investigators have obtained footage showing the suspect boarding buses from Tumakuru to Ballari, utilizing multiple Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses.

Additionally, the Home Minister mentioned that seven special teams have been assembled and dispatched in various directions to advance the investigation. These teams are closely collaborating with the NIA to expedite the investigative process.

On March 6, the NIA announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for any information regarding the individuals responsible for the Rameshwaram cafe blast. Furthermore, the NIA assured that the informant’s identity would be kept confidential.