Over a week ago, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) made significant progress in the Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast case by arresting two suspects, Abdul Matheen Taha and Mussavir Hussain Shazib. These suspects are believed to have played key roles in the planning and execution of the blast. Taha has been identified as the planner of the bomb, whereas Shazib is said to have executed the blast.
According to reports, the NIA is now intensifying its search for a crucial figure known only as “Colonel,” believed to be the handler of Taha and Shazib. It is alleged that Colonel has been in contact with both suspects since their involvement with the IS Al-Hind module in 2019-20.
The involvement of Colonel came to light after the Mangaluru autorickshaw blast in November 2022.
Sources suggest that Colonel operates from somewhere in the Middle East, possibly Abu Dhabi. The agencies suspect that Colonel is linked to Pakistan’s ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence), and may be aiding in the revival of terror activities in Bharat by setting up small IS modules.
The interrogation of Taha and Shazib has provided valuable insights into Colonel’s online identities, future terror plans, and other members associated with the Shivamogga IS module. Both individuals were part of a 20-member Al-Hind module that aimed to establish an IS province in the forest areas of Southern Bharat.
The Al-Hind module, led by Mehboob Pasha and Khaja Moideen, operated from the Al-Hind Trust office in Bengaluru. Their sinister plans included targeting Hindu religious and political leaders, government officials, police officers, and VVIPs across Bharat. They intended to retreat to forest areas after executing their attacks.
Moreover, the investigation is exploring Colonel’s possible connection to the little-known Islamic Resistance Council (IRC), which claimed responsibility for the Mangaluru autorickshaw blast. There are suspicions that other groups, including the Islamic State in Khorasan Province, may be involved in these acts to divert attention.
The recent blast at the Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru Whitefield on 1st March further underscores the urgent need to dismantle such terror networks. The NIA, with the support of local authorities, continues to work tirelessly to apprehend those responsible for these heinous acts and prevent future incidents.
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