Update on B'luru Cafe Blast: Shivakumar Announces Identification of Suspect, Arrest Imminent

Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, provided an update on Friday regarding the investigation into the blast at a cafe in Bengaluru. He confirmed that the identity of the suspected individual responsible for the explosion has been established, expressing confidence that the culprit will be apprehended "in a few hours."

Earlier statements from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah indicated that the blast, which occurred at the Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru's Whitefield IT hub, was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED), resulting in injuries to at least 10 individuals.

Addressing reporters, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar asserted the capabilities of law enforcement officers in tracking down the suspect. He mentioned that the individual's facial features have been noted, facilitating his identification. Shivakumar assured that authorities would address the media at an appropriate time with further updates.

The explosion occurred around 1:15 p.m., coinciding with the lunch hour when the cafe was bustling with customers. Shivakumar elaborated on the sequence of events, stating that a young man arrived at the cafe, consumed food, placed a bag near a tree, and departed. Approximately an hour later, a low-intensity blast occurred, caused by a bomb with a timer set by the individual.

Describing the aftermath of the explosion, Shivakumar noted the injuries sustained by ten people and the significant noise generated by the blast. He mentioned that CCTV footage captured the entire incident and revealed the suspect's arrival at the location by bus, documenting his movements.

The Deputy Chief Minister informed that multiple investigative teams have been mobilized, emphasizing the provision of medical care for the injured individuals. He reiterated the comprehensive nature of the investigation, ensuring that all angles are being thoroughly explored to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.