Himalaya Harbinger Bengaluru Bureau, February 28, 2024
In the aftermath of Thursday’s bomb blast at The Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru’s Whitefield, a meticulous investigation is underway, involving the Forensic Science Laboratory, bomb disposal squad, and dog squad. The explosion resulted in injuries to 10 individuals, prompting swift action from law enforcement.
On Friday, the Bengaluru police registered an FIR under sections 307, 471 of IPC, and 16, 18, and 38 of the UAPA, supplemented by sections 3 and 4 of the Explosive Substance Act.
Karnataka Home Minister, Dr. G Parameshwara, shared insights on Saturday morning, suggesting that the suspect had utilized public transportation. “We have constituted several teams. We have collected some evidence from CCTV footage. When the explosion took place, a BMTC bus moved on that way. We have information that he came on a bus. We will arrest the accused as soon as possible,” he stated.
According to Parameshwara, a timer was employed for the blast, with ongoing efforts from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team. “Our teams are doing great. A timer was used for the blast, and the FSL team is doing the work. We have a meeting at 1 pm. CM Siddaramaiah will lead the meeting with high-level police officials regarding the blast,” he added.
Deputy CM Shivakumar revealed that the Karnataka government has formed eight teams to probe the incident. He explained, “A youth came and kept a small bag, which exploded after an hour. About 10 people received injuries. 7-8 teams have been formed to probe the incident. We are looking from all angles. I ask every Bangalorean not to worry.”
The alleged perpetrator, described as a 28-30-year-old man, entered the cafe for breakfast, ordered Rava idli, and left without consuming the dish. The explosive device, concealed in a bag, had a one-hour timer. The blast occurred behind a woman sitting with other customers around 1 pm.
An NIA team visited the site on Friday, and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi called for an NIA investigation, condemning the blast. “We strongly condemn this blast; the NIA should investigate this, and the state government should recommend this,” he insisted.
Bengaluru Police Commissioner, in a statement on Saturday, emphasized the ongoing efforts. “As regards the Rameshwaram cafe incident, the investigation is in full swing. Several teams are working on different leads obtained so far. Keeping in mind the sensitivity of the case and the security concerns, the media is appealed not to indulge in speculation and cooperate.”
