In a shocking incident at Bengaluru’s Rameshwaram Cafe in the Whitefield area, a blast occurred on Friday between 12:50 pm and 1 pm, injuring ten people. CCTV footage has revealed a masked suspect entering the cafe, ordering a plate of idlis, and leaving a bag near a tree, which allegedly contained the explosive device. Another individual accompanying the suspect has been detained for questioning.
The police have invoked the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Explosive Substances Act, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is conducting a thorough inquiry. The injured, including cafe staff and patrons, are receiving medical treatment.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah urged the public not to politicize the incident and called for cooperation in the investigation. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar provided details about the sequence of events, mentioning that the blast occurred an hour after the suspect left the cafe.
The Central Crime Branch (CCB) is leading the investigation, with multiple teams actively pursuing leads to identify the accused. The top police officer, Alok Mohan, said that everyone who got hurt in the incident was okay and didn’t have any serious injuries.
Forensic teams are examining the scene to determine the nature of the explosive device, and NSG commandos and bomb squads are combing the area. Rameshwaram Cafe co-founder Divya Raghavendra Rao revealed that initial suspicions of the blast originating in the kitchen were dispelled after reviewing CCTV footage. The footage showed a masked individual ordering food, leaving a bag at the table, and exiting the restaurant.
In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Ms Rao explained that when they checked the video from the security cameras, they saw a person wearing a mask and scarf. This person went to the counter to order a type of idli called rava idli. After getting the food, the person sat in a corner, finished eating, and left a bag at the spot before leaving the restaurant.
The incident has raised security concerns, prompting swift action from law enforcement agencies. Karnataka’s Chief Minister emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and discouraged speculation. The police are treating the incident as a bomb blast and are working to ensure public safety.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus is on identifying the suspect and understanding the motive behind the attack. The injured victims are receiving support and care, with authorities assuring the public that steps are being taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
With the cafe being an active crime scene, forensic teams continue to gather evidence to ascertain the type of explosive device used. The involvement of NSG commandos and bomb squads underscores the seriousness of the situation.
The local community and businesses, including Rameshwaram Cafe, are cooperating with authorities to facilitate a thorough investigation. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and security measures to safeguard public spaces from potential threats.
