In the ongoing investigation into the March 1 blast at Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is scrutinizing fresh CCTV footage. Sources reveal that the suspected bomber might have changed clothes and taken a bus to Tumakuru in Karnataka after planting the improvised explosive device (IED) at the popular eatery. The individual reportedly used multiple public buses to reach the cafe on the morning of the incident.
An anonymous officer familiar with the matter disclosed, “New video footage shows the suspect with a backpack, wearing a full-sleeved shirt, cap, facemask, and spectacles moving in the bus. It seems that he intentionally avoided the camera’s view after realizing its presence. We are currently verifying the footage.”
Additionally, an unverified photograph has surfaced, showing the suspect in a T-shirt without a facemask, cap, and spectacles, sitting inside another bus.
Karnataka’s Home Minister, G Parameshwara, revealed on Thursday that the prime suspect changed clothes post-incident and traveled by bus towards Tumakuru. He stated, “We have received significant leads regarding the direction he has taken and his change of clothes. While some information cannot be disclosed, officials are diligently following up on crucial leads. I believe he will be apprehended soon.”
The NIA, now leading the anti-terror probe, announced a ₹10-lakh reward for information about the suspect. Authorities are exploring various angles, including the possible involvement of Islamic State operatives. Preliminary analysis has identified similarities between the Bengaluru blast and the October 2022 explosion at a temple in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, which was also investigated by the NIA. The Coimbatore blast was executed by an Islamic State operative, Jameesha Mubeen, who perished in the incident.
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