Bomb Threat Email Triggers Security Sweep at Mumbai Airport; Police Register Case After Hoax Alert
Mumbai, June 14: A bomb threat email sent to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) on Saturday triggered an extensive security operation across the airport premises and surrounding areas. The search was conducted by police personnel with assistance from the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) after authorities received a threatening message claiming that explosives had been planted inside the airport.
The email, received at 11:22 am, carried the subject line, “WE HAVE PLACED BOMBS”, and claimed responsibility on behalf of a terrorist group. The sender warned that a bomb had been planted inside Mumbai Airport and would explode soon. The message further threatened attacks at multiple locations and concluded with the phrase, “HAIL SWAT TERROR X SWAT KATS,” a reference apparently linked to the animated television series SWAT Kats.
Following the threat, a Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) meeting was convened at Mumbai Airport between 11:55 am and 12:10 pm. After evaluating the contents of the email, the committee categorized the threat as “non-specific” and ordered comprehensive anti-sabotage checks across the airport while directing security agencies to remain on high alert.
Police and security teams subsequently conducted thorough searches of the airport premises and nearby areas. No suspicious objects or explosives were found during the operation, and the threat was later declared a hoax.
The Sahar Police have registered a non-cognisable offence against an unidentified individual. Investigators suspect the sender may have used a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to conceal their identity while sending the email from the address [email protected] to the airport’s official feedback email account.
A police officer said that although the threat was found to be false, authorities have intensified surveillance and security measures as a precautionary step to prevent any untoward incident. The investigation to trace the sender is currently underway.
