A bustling café in Bengaluru, Rameshwaram Cafe, was rocked by a bomb blast on Friday, leaving ten individuals injured. The incident has sparked a comprehensive investigation by authorities, pivoting away from initial suspicions of a gas leak to the likelihood of an improvised explosive device (IED) triggering the explosion.
Authorities are examining CCTV footage, which reportedly captures the suspect, believed to be in his late 20s or early 30s, placing a bag containing the explosive inside the café. According to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, the perpetrator ordered food before discreetly leaving the bag near a tree adjacent to the kitchen area. The blast occurred precisely an hour later, indicating a premeditated act.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reiterated that the blast was indeed caused by an IED, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice. The involvement of agencies like the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB) underscores the seriousness of the matter.
Divya Raghavendra, Founder and MD of Rameshwaram Cafe, affirmed that the establishment had adhered to all safety protocols mandated by the fire department and stressed that the explosion originated from material brought into the café from outside, rather than any internal factors. She assured cooperation with the ongoing investigation and expressed solidarity with the injured individuals and their families.
Meanwhile, authorities have registered a case under pertinent sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UA(P)A) and the Explosive Substances Act, signaling a firm stance against such acts of violence.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of citizens and holding those responsible for the heinous act accountable.