Mumbai on Edge: Terror Threat Targets Festival
Police probe hoax claim of bombs, terrorists.
Mumbai is on high alert following a chilling WhatsApp threat received by the traffic police, claiming that 14 terrorists have infiltrated the city with 400 kilograms of RDX planted in 34 vehicles. The message, attributed to an organization called 'Lashkar-e-Jihadi,' was sent on Thursday, September 4, 2025, as the city prepared for Anant Chaturdashi, the final day of the Ganesh festival on September 6.
The Mumbai Police have launched a comprehensive investigation, with the Crime Branch and Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) leading efforts to trace the source of the message using technical analysis. A case has been registered at Worli police station against an unidentified sender under section 351 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for criminal intimidation. While preliminary assessments suggest the threat may be a hoax, similar to past messages received on the same WhatsApp helpline, authorities are taking no chances.
With lakhs of devotees expected to flood Mumbai’s streets for the Ganesh idol immersions, over 21,000 police personnel have been deployed to ensure safety and maintain order. Security has been tightened at key locations, and combing operations are underway across the city. “There is no need to panic,” a police official stated, urging residents to report suspicious activity and avoid spreading rumors.
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The timing of the threat, coinciding with the festive climax, has heightened concerns, as the city anticipates massive crowds at immersion sites like the sea and artificial ponds. Despite the suspected hoax, the police are prioritizing public safety, drawing on lessons from previous false alarms, including a recent bomb threat at Kalwa railway station in Thane that led to the arrest of a 43-year-old man.
Mumbaikars have been asked to remain vigilant as the city bids farewell to Lord Ganesh, with authorities committed to ensuring a secure and peaceful conclusion to the 10-day festival.
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