Noida Man Arrested for Sending Hoax Terror Threat to Mumbai Police
Mumbai police have arrested a 50-year-old man from Noida, Uttar Pradesh, for sending a hoax terror threat. The accused, Ashwinikumar Supra, allegedly sent a WhatsApp message to the traffic police helpline claiming 14 terrorists with 400 kg of RDX had entered Mumbai to carry out blasts. The threat, received during the Ganesh festival, triggered a high alert. The Mumbai Crime Branch traced the sender's location and apprehended him within 24 hours. The motive behind the hoax is currently under investigation.
Unpacked:
The Ganesh festival is one of Mumbai's largest public celebrations, attracting massive crowds to processions and temples. This makes it a potential target for terror attacks, increasing the urgency and seriousness with which authorities respond to any threats during this period.
Mumbai police used digital forensics to trace the origin of the WhatsApp message, pinpointing the sender’s location to Noida. Rapid coordination with local authorities and specialized crime branch units enabled them to apprehend the suspect within 24 hours.
Mumbai has a history of both real attacks, such as the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and frequent hoax threats, especially around sensitive dates or events. Recent months have seen multiple bomb hoax calls leading to heightened security and police investigations, though most turned out to be false alarms.
Making hoax terror threats is a serious offense under Indian law, often prosecuted under sections related to public mischief and the Information Technology Act. Convicted individuals can face imprisonment, fines, and other penalties, especially if their actions cause widespread panic or resource deployment.