Posted by Bengaluru: In a major breakthrough in the investigation of The Rameshwaram Cafe blast case, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) made a crucial arrest on Thursday. A key conspirator, identified as Muzammil Shareef, was apprehended by the NIA officials following extensive raids conducted across multiple locations in three states.
“Muzammil Shareef was picked up and placed in custody as a co-conspirator after NIA teams cracked down at 18 locations, including 12 in Karnataka, 5 in Tamil Nadu, and one in Uttar Pradesh,” stated the NIA.
Two accused on the run
The investigation, which was taken over by the NIA on March 3, had earlier identified the main accused, Mussavir Shazeeb Hussain, who carried out the blast. Another conspirator, Abdul Matheen Taha, has also been identified and is wanted by the agency in connection with other cases. Both persons are on the run.
“NIA investigations have revealed that Muzammil Shareef had extended logistic support to the other two identified accused in the case,” the agency disclosed. The blast, which occurred on March 1 at the cafe located at ITPL road, Brookefield, Bengaluru, resulted in injuries to several customers and hotel staff members, some of whom sustained severe injuries. The explosion also caused extensive damage to the property.
Raids at premises of three accused
Raids were conducted at the residences of the three accused and the residential premises and shops of other suspects. Various digital devices were seized during the searches, along with cash. Efforts are underway to apprehend the absconding accused.