Pune sector planes threatened with bombs; $60,000 demanded in messages
Pune sector planes threatened with bombs; $60,000 demanded in messages
On Sunday, there were false bomb threats made against three flights in the Pune area, bringing the total number of such threats to eight since Friday. These threats targeted 50 flights, all originating from the same social media account on X, ‘@2008bombing’.
The post demanded $60,000 and warned of potential explosions if the money wasn’t paid. It also contained an email address [email protected]. Among the affected flights were two IndiGo flights, one from Kolkata to Pune and another from Pune to Jodhpur. The flight from Kolkata was moved to an isolated bay for safety checks, while the Pune-Jodhpur flight was diverted to Ahmedabad. Additionally, an Akasa Air flight from Kolkata to Pune was isolated at Lohegaon for inspections.
IndiGo confirmed the incidents, stating that the safety of passengers was a top priority. Flight 6E 133 from Pune to Jodhpur was redirected to Ahmedabad as a precaution, with all passengers safely disembarked upon landing. We are collaborating closely with the relevant authorities, and the necessary checks are currently being conducted. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this situation may have caused our customers.
Regarding the Pune-Kolkata flight, the airline spokesperson mentioned that they are coordinating with all authorities and taking all necessary precautions. A statement from Akasa Air indicated that on October 27, fifteen of their flights received security alerts. The captains and crew members adhered to emergency procedures and safety protocols in collaboration with local authorities. The Airport Services teams at all affected airports worked together with local authorities to ensure smooth handling of the situation.
On Saturday, three IndiGo flights heading to Pune from Patna, Bengaluru, and Kolkata also received bomb threats, prompting the implementation of safety procedures at the airport.
“This situation is becoming increasingly concerning, and I’m really anxious since my daughter is returning from Delhi for Diwali,” said an individual from Pune.
On Saturday, airport police filed a case against an individual operating a social media account for allegedly sending a threat to various Vistara Airlines flights, including one from Singapore to Pune, around 12:05 am on Friday. An airline officer reported the incident to the police, stating that the message claimed bombs were planted under the seats of the planes and that three IEDs were onboard each flight, set to explode in two hours, along with specific flight numbers.
On Sunday, police received three additional complaints from private airlines. Sub-inspector Sandeep Karpe stated that they are in the process of registering these complaints. He also mentioned that after the Kolkata flight arrived at Lohegaon Airport, it was thoroughly inspected by CISF and other authorities, finding nothing suspicious. Authorities have contacted social media companies for information about the accounts that sent the threats, with additional commissioner of police Manoj Patil expressing hope for a quick response, as the reasons for the threats remain unknown.
