The National Investigation Agency (NIA) made a significant breakthrough in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case by apprehending the fifth suspect, 35-year-old Shoaib Ahmed Mirza, also known as Chhotu. Hailing from Hubbali, Karnataka, Mirza was previously convicted in a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror conspiracy case, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation.
According to an official statement by the NIA, Mirza's involvement in the recent conspiracy emerged after his release from prison. It was revealed that in 2018, he facilitated the introduction of Abdul Mateen Taha, another accused, to an online handler suspected to be operating abroad. Mirza also provided an encrypted email ID for communication between Taha and the handler.
The arrest of Mirza follows extensive multi-state raids conducted by the NIA, encompassing 29 locations across India, as part of efforts to apprehend suspects linked to the Rameshwaram Cafe blast. This latest development comes on the heels of previous arrests, including that of the alleged mastermind Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa and co-accused Mussavir Hussain Shazib, who were apprehended from a lodge near Kolkata.
The ongoing investigation seeks to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy and the role of the handler, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding the blast, which caused injuries and substantial property damage. The NIA continues to pursue leads to ensure accountability and bring those responsible to justice.
