Bengaluru: Blast in Famous Rameshwaram Cafe, 9 Injured
A bomb blast in Bengaluru's famous Rameshwaram Cafe on the afternoon of 1st March 2024 has injured more than 9 people and shocked the country. Detailed investigation is in the process.
On 1st March 2024, Bengaluru's renowned Rameshwaram Cafe, nestled in the heart of the IT hub in Brookfield, Whitefield, was struck by a bomb blast, sending shockwaves through the bustling city. The cafe, frequented by both locals and celebrities, fell victim to the explosion, injuring at least nine individuals. Teams comprising police, firefighters, forensics, and bomb disposal squads swiftly converged at the scene, initiating a thorough investigation into the incident. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, accompanied by other officials, visited the cafe to assess the situation firsthand.
Initial assumptions speculated a possible LPG cylinder burst, but Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed that the blast resulted from an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) concealed in a bag strategically placed within the cafe premises. The perpetrator, identified as a male aged between 28 to 30 years, was captured on CCTV footage. The assailant, disguised with a cap, glasses, and mask, entered the cafe carrying a bag. After obtaining a coupon for Rava Idli from the cash counter, he discreetly positioned the bag beneath an unoccupied table, ostensibly reserving it. Subsequently, he made a brief trip to the washroom before exiting the cafe without retrieving his bag or consuming any food.
Investigators uncovered remnants of the IED, including a 9v battery, timer, and assorted nuts and bolts, strewn across the scene. Remarkably, no additional explosives were discovered on the premises. The blast's impact was evident from the torn clothes and visible injuries sustained by fleeing patrons. The Central Crime Branch of Bengaluru's Police Department assumed control of the investigation, scrutinizing CCTV footage to trace the suspect's movements from his arrival at the cafe to his hasty departure. Four individuals were detained for interrogation, with authorities expanding their search across Dharwad, Hubballi, and Bengaluru.
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar affirmed the deployment of multiple investigative teams, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the probe. Efforts encompassed reviewing weeks of cafe footage to ascertain if the assailant had conducted reconnaissance prior to the attack, suggesting a premeditated motive.
Responding to public apprehension, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reassured citizens of a thorough investigation and swift justice. He urged officials to expedite measures to prevent future occurrences and emphasized stringent action against perpetrators. The incident prompted authorities to register a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Explosive Substances Act at Bengaluru's HAL Police Station, highlighting the severity of the attack in today's era of heightened security vigilance. As investigations unfold, Bengaluru remains united in its resolve to uncover the truth behind the Rameshwaram Cafe blast and safeguard its citizens against similar threats in the future.
