Bengaluru Cafe Blast: Business Rivalry Or Terrorist Plot? What Was The Motive Behind The Attack?

The investigation into the recent explosion at Bengaluru's Rameswaram Cafe has taken an interesting turn, with police now considering business rivalry as a possible motive alongside terrorism.

Rameswaram Cafe blast: Business Rivalry?

Authorities suspect the attack, which resulted in no casualties but caused damage, could be linked to jealousy and resentment from competitors, especially after Rameswaram Cafe secured the prestigious catering contract for the pre-wedding ceremony of Mukesh Ambani's son, Akash Ambani. This significant event led to several chefs and suppliers being absent from the cafe, potentially providing an opportunity for an attack.

Evidence Points to Intentional Damage:

The use of "light explosives" suggests the perpetrators aimed to damage the cafe's reputation and create fear, rather than cause major casualties. According to Divya, the Managing Director, the blasts occurred customer seating area which was close to the washing basin and another one took place outside the kitchen, further supporting this theory. Additionally, the presence of a suspicious bag left at the cafe earlier, containing pot liquor, raises further questions.

Exploring Multi-Angle:

While the business rivalry angle holds weight, the investigation is not neglecting the possibility of terrorism. A case has been filed at the HAL station, and authorities are looking at all angles, including three suspects identified through ID cards found at the blast site. Senior police officers are actively pursuing leads to uncover the truth behind the incident.

A case has been registered under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act UAPA, Explosive Substances Act, IPC 120B, 324 and 307.

CCTV Footage Adds Clues

A day after the explosion, CCTV footage has surfaced allegedly showing a suspect entering the cafe with a bag. Police claim the suspect placed the bag in the cafe before leaving, wearing a mask and a cap. The suspect obtained a token for Rava Idli at 11:30 am, over an hour before the blast at 12:56 pm on Friday.

Home Minister G Parameshwara stated that the investigation revealed the suspect traveled by bus. Police are reviewing CCTV footage to determine the bus route and the suspect's origin. According to a TOI report, Bengaluru police are using AI-powered facial recognition technology to identify the suspect. "The suspect has been identified, and his facial features captured by CCTVs are being matched using facial recognition systems," Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said.