Rameshwaram cafe blast: Who is the key conspirator arrested by NIA? 

Team Udayavani, Mar 29, 2024, 8:34 AM IST

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made significant progress in the investigation of the Kundalahalli Rameswaram cafe blast case by apprehending a key-conspirator involved in smuggling explosives.

Identified as Muzameel Sharif (35) from Mudigere taluk of Chikmagalur district, the arrested individual played a pivotal role in aiding Musavir Shajeeb Hussain and another co-conspirator, Abdul Mateen Taha, in the transportation of explosives. Hussain and Taha are considered the main accused in the case.

The NIA conducted extensive operations across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh before making the arrest on Thursday. Investigations revealed Sharif’s involvement in facilitating the transportation of explosives and distributing mobile SIM cards to the main suspects.

During the raid, conducted in 12 locations including Thirthahalli in Shimoga, Gurappanapalaya in Bengaluru, Mudigere in Chikkamagaluru, and Bhatkal in the district, digital evidence and cash were seized from the residences and shops of the accused.

Sharif, known to have connections with the Al Hind organization, had been under surveillance for his alleged involvement in a conspiracy to harm Hindu leaders in Suddugunte Palya, Bangalore, in 2020. His arrest follows the discovery of incriminating evidence linking him to the smuggling of explosives and collaboration with the primary suspects.

The technical investigation uncovered Sharif’s communication with Taha, corroborating his role as a co-conspirator in the planning and execution of the attack. Further examination of Sharif’s computer and laptop revealed his direct involvement in supplying SIM cards and crude explosives to Hussain, the perpetrator of the blast.

The arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing probe into the Kundalahalli Rameswaram cafe blast case, shedding light on the intricate network of individuals involved in the heinous crime.