Bengaluru: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has announced a bounty of Rs 10 lakh for anyone who can help capture two key suspects involved in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case in Bengaluru.
The suspects, identified as Mussavir Hussain Shazib, also known as Shazeb, and Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, alias Abdul Matheen Taha, are being sought by the anti-terror agency for their alleged involvement in the explosion that injured nine people on March 1.
Shazib, believed to be the individual who planted the bomb at the cafe, has been observed using multiple aliases while booking accommodations at various budget hotels and lodges. Described as a tall man, approximately 6 feet 2 inches in height, with a muscular build and straight black hair, Shazib has been employing disguises such as fake beards, wigs, and masks to conceal his appearance. Surveillance footage after the blast shows the suspect wearing a cap multiple times.
The NIA has urged the public to come forward with any information regarding individuals resembling Shazib’s photos. They have cautioned that Shazib may use forged identity documents, such as a fake driving license, to evade detection.
Meanwhile, the agency has also issued a warning regarding Taahaa, suspected to be the mastermind behind the ISIS Shimoga module and the main handler in the Mangalore auto blast case. Taahaa, aged 30, is described as approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall with a receding hairline. He may be using a Hindu name, such as Sumit or Vighnesh, as an alias while on the run.
Crucial evidence in the case includes a limited edition baseball cap believed to have been worn by Shazib during the placement of the improvised explosive device (IED) at the Rameshwaram cafe. The cap was purchased from a Chennai mall and later discarded near the blast site, providing vital leads to the investigation.
The suspects, both on the run for the past three years, have been implicated in multiple cases, including the Al-Hind case. The NIA has advised lodging establishments and hostels in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and neighboring states to remain vigilant, as the suspects are likely to seek low-key accommodations to evade law enforcement.
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Rameshwaram Cafe Blast: NIA Detains Two Suspects in B’luru – News Karnataka
