The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has put forth a reward of Rs 20 lakh for any information leading to the apprehension of the two suspects involved in the Bengaluru cafe blast case. Each suspect, Musaavir Hussain Shazib and Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, is subject to a reward of Rs 10,00,000 lakh. Shazib is suspected of planting the improvised explosive device (IED), while Taahaa is believed to have played a role in plotting the incident. It is emphasised by the NIA that the identity of the informant will remain protected. Both individuals are already wanted in connection with a terrorism case from 2020.
The NIA has released detailed descriptions of the suspects’ physical appearances, including their age, attire, height, and complexion. Additionally, the agency has made public both online and postal addresses, along with telephone numbers, for contacting them.
Of significant note is the revelation by the NIA that Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa has been utilising fake identity documents bearing a Hindu name.
The poster featuring Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa specifies, “Whoever provides any information leading to the arrest of the above-mentioned accused person shall be rewarded REWARD Rs 10,00,000/- (Identity of the informer will be kept secret). Has been using Hindu identity documents, forged Adhaar in the name of Vignesh or other similar forged ID documents to conceal identity. Preferred dress – Jeans T-shirt And Shirt & Cap Hoodies, often wears Mask, Wig and Fake Beard. Preferred places of stay – Mens/Boys Hostel, PG/Sharing accommodations/ Low Budget Hotels and Lodges.”
Request for Information, Identity of the Informer will be kept Secret. pic.twitter.com/JkMUWay23m
— NIA India (@NIA_India) March 29, 2024
His age is listed as around 30 years, complexion described as wheatish, with a medium body build, and a height of approximately 5 feet 5 inches. Taahaa is described as “bald from front and light hair on back and sides” and is often seen wearing “a t-shirt and jeans with hoodies and a cap.”
In regards to Musaavir Hussain Shazib, the prime accused, the poster reads, “Whoever provides any information leading to the arrest of the above-mentioned accused person shall be rewarded REWARD 10,00,000/- (Identity of the informer will be kept secret). He has been using a forged driving licence in the name of Mohammed Juned Sayed or other similar forged ID documents to conceal his identity. Preferred dress – Jeans, T-Shirt & Shirt, wears Black Smart Watch, often wears Mask, Wig & Fake Beard. Preferred places of stay – Mens/Boys Hostel, PG/Sharing accommodations/ Low Budget Hotels and Lodges.”
Request for Information, Identity of the Informer will be kept Secret. pic.twitter.com/PBXPRH3DtB
— NIA India (@NIA_India) March 29, 2024
Shazib’s age is listed as 30 years, complexion is described as fair, with a gym-type body build, and a height of about 6 feet 2 inches. He has “black and straight” hair and is typically attired in “a t-shirt and jeans.”
It’s noteworthy that the agency recently apprehended Muzammil Shareef, one of the co-conspirators, on 28th March after conducting extensive search operations at 18 locations, including 12 in Karnataka, five in Tamil Nadu, and one in Uttar Pradesh. Shareef is alleged to have provided logistical support to other individuals involved in the incident, as per the agency’s statements.
