Key '08 blasts accused tells cops lax security made city ideal for strike
Key '08 blasts accused tells cops lax security made city ideal for strike
T Nasir, the main accused in thye July 25, 2008, serial blasts in the city, has reportedly told the police during interrogation that the city was chosen as a target because it had poor security cover compared to other big cities such as Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai.
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AFTERMATH: The scene after the Madiwala bus stop bomb blast on July 25, 2008. File Pic |
This means the terror strike on the Indian Institute of Science on December 28, 2005, had not taught the authorities a lesson, as Bangalore remained a soft target in terrorists' minds even in 2008.
Nasir also reportedly told investigators that Bangalore's status as the financial capital after Mumbai, in terms of investments and the information technology industry making its home here, was another reason the city became the chosen target. In addition, Nasir was a frequent visitor to the city and knew it well.
Nasir also reportedly admitted that his handlers, who financed the entire serial blasts operation, were solely interested in Bangalore as it had attained the distinction of being a fast-growing city in the country and had made a mark in the world market, especially in information technology and bio-technology.
Inexpensive blasts
Investigators said that the funds for the blasts were low compared to other terror operations, with not even Rs 50,000 going into the entire operation.
Nasir and his associates rented a cheap house in Bommanahalli on Hosur Road and spent part of the money they had on hiring vehicles.
"Even the explosives and timers used in the blasts were stolen from a shop in Kannur," said a senior officer who interrogated Nasir.
Investigators feel the city is still vulnerable to terror strikes as not much has been done to upgrade security.
