The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has achieved a significant breakthrough in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case with the arrest of a key conspirator, Muzammil Shareef, following extensive raids across multiple locations in three states.

The arrest of Muzammil Shareef, identified as a crucial co-conspirator, occurred on Wednesday during coordinated raids at 18 locations, including 12 in Karnataka, five in Tamil Nadu, and one in Uttar Pradesh.

The NIA had taken over the case on March 3 and had earlier identified Mussavir Shazeeb Hussain as the main accused who executed the blast. Another conspirator, Abdul Matheen Taha, also identified by the agency, remains at large and is wanted in connection with other cases.

According to NIA investigations, Muzammil Shareef provided logistical support to the two main accused involved in the IED explosion at the Cafe situated on ITPL road, Brookefield, Bengaluru, on March 1.

The blast resulted in injuries to several customers and hotel staff members, some of whom sustained severe injuries, besides causing extensive damage to the property.

During the raids, NIA teams conducted searches at the residences of the three accused and other suspected individuals, seizing various digital devices and cash. The agency stated, “Efforts are on to nab the absconding accused and unearth the larger conspiracy behind the blast.”

This development marks a significant stride in the investigation, shedding light on the intricate web of individuals involved in the planning and execution of the tragic incident at Rameshwaram Cafe.