Mumbai: The city has been put on high alert after Mumbai Police received a bomb threat from a group identifying itself as Lashkar-e-Jihadi. The threat, issued on the eve of Anant Chaturdashi, claimed that 34 “human bombs” and 400 kg of RDX have been planted across Mumbai in a plot to cause mass destruction.
According to police officials, the threat message was received on the Mumbai Traffic Police Control Room’s WhatsApp number on Friday, warning that 34 vehicles loaded with explosives and human bombs have been stationed across the city. The message further alleged that 14 Pakistani terrorists have infiltrated India to execute the attack.
Security Tightened Across Mumbai During Ganesh Visarjan
The timing of the threat has raised concerns, as lakhs of devotees are participating in Ganesh idol immersions (visarjan) across the city. Anant Chaturdashi marks the final day of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, drawing massive crowds to immersion points along the coast and rivers.
Mumbai Police have deployed additional security forces across sensitive areas, traffic junctions, and visarjan routes. Surveillance has been intensified at major immersion spots, railway stations, bus depots, and crowded marketplaces.
A senior police officer stated:
“Traffic Police in Mumbai received threats over their official WhatsApp number. The message claimed that 34 ‘human bombs’ have been planted in vehicles and that the blast will shake the entire city. We have also been warned about 400 kg of RDX being used.”
Citizens Urged to Stay Vigilant
While confirming that the message is under investigation, police have appealed to citizens to remain calm, avoid panic, and immediately report any suspicious activities. Authorities stressed that misinformation or rumours could worsen the situation during the ongoing festive celebrations.
The latest threat comes just days after a 43-year-old man was arrested in Thane for making a hoax bomb threat call about blowing up a railway station in Maharashtra. Police are examining whether the latest warning is part of a larger plot or another attempt to disrupt law and order.
Past Threats and Preparedness
Mumbai has been the target of several terror threats in the past, and security agencies have been on heightened alert during festivals. This year’s Ganesh festival already saw strict checks at immersion points, but Friday’s warning has prompted extra vigilance and deployment.
Police have also launched technical analysis of the WhatsApp threat and are coordinating with central intelligence agencies to trace the source of the message.
Key Highlights of the Threat:
- Issued by group calling itself Lashkar-e-Jihadi
- Claims of 34 human bombs planted in 34 vehicles
- Alleged use of 400 kg RDX to “shake the city”
- Warning of 14 Pakistani terrorists entering India
- Threat received on Mumbai Traffic Police WhatsApp helpline
Final Word
As Ganesh visarjan continues, Mumbai remains under tight security surveillance. Police officials have reassured citizens that every precautionary measure is being taken to ensure safety.