Maharashtra Man Sends Hoax Bomb Threats to PMO, Flights, Officials Because He Wanted to Do This

Introduction

A 26-year-old man from Maharashtra was arrested by the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of Mumbai Police for sending hoax bomb threats to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), several flights, and government officials via email and phone calls. The accused, identified as Nilesh Fulsundar Bhoir, was arrested from his residence in Nashik on Friday, January 20, 2023.

Motive Behind the Hoax Threats

The accused, Nilesh Bhoir, confessed during interrogation that he sent the hoax threats to avoid appearing in a court case related to a financial dispute. Bhoir was scheduled to appear before a court in Pune on January 20, the same day he sent the threats. He aimed to create a situation where he would be taken into police custody and, thus, avoid attending the court hearing.

Modus Operandi

Bhoir used various email addresses and phone numbers to send the hoax threats. He sent emails to the PMO, several airlines, and government offices, claiming that bombs had been planted at various locations, including airports, government buildings, and flights. He also made hoax calls to government officials, threatening to detonate bombs if his demands were not met.

Impact of the Threats

The hoax threats caused widespread panic and disruption. Several flights were delayed or canceled, and security was beefed up at airports and government buildings. The PMO and other government offices were forced to evacuate their premises and conduct thorough security checks. The threats also caused fear and anxiety among the general public.

Investigation and Arrest

The Mumbai Police's ATS launched an investigation into the hoax threats and traced the source to Nilesh Bhoir. They conducted a raid on his residence in Nashik and arrested him on January 20. During the raid, the police seized several electronic devices, including computers and mobile phones, which were used to send the hoax threats.

Legal Proceedings

Nilesh Bhoir was produced before a court in Mumbai on Saturday, January 21, and remanded to police custody for further investigation. He has been charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including spreading false information, causing panic, and making threats. The police are also investigating whether Bhoir had any accomplices or if he was acting alone.

Conclusion

The arrest of Nilesh Bhoir has brought to light the growing problem of hoax threats in India. Such threats can cause widespread panic, disrupt public order, and waste valuable resources of law enforcement agencies. It is crucial for the public to be aware of the consequences of making hoax threats and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.