In a dramatic turn of events, Mumbai Police confirmed the arrest of a man from Patna who had sent an alarming email threatening that 400 kg RDX had been planted in Mumbai. The accused, identified as a 28-year-old from Bihar, was arrested in Noida after an extensive cyber-trail investigation led the authorities to him. The case, though ultimately revealed to be a hoax, sent shockwaves through Mumbai’s law enforcement and security circles.
The Threat That Shook Mumbai
The incident began when the Mumbai Police’s cyber cell received an email claiming that 400 kg RDX had been planted in strategic locations across the city. The email, laced with inflammatory language, warned of imminent blasts and targeted chaos. Given the sensitivity of such a threat, the Mumbai Police wasted no time and placed the city on high alert.
Explosive detection squads, sniffer dogs, and anti-terror units were mobilized overnight. Key installations, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Gateway of India, and high-profile business hubs in South Mumbai, were combed for any suspicious items. Fortunately, no explosives were found.
Tracing the Accused
Cyber experts quickly traced the digital footprint of the sender. The email was found to have originated from a location in Patna, Bihar. Investigators then tracked the accused’s movements to Noida, Uttar Pradesh, where he was finally arrested in a joint operation by the Mumbai Police and local authorities.
Preliminary investigations reveal that the accused may have acted out of personal frustration and a desire for attention rather than being linked to any organized terror network. Officials stressed that there is no evidence of a larger conspiracy at this stage.
Background of the Accused
The arrested individual reportedly worked in small odd jobs in Patna before relocating temporarily to Noida. Sources suggest he was under financial distress and struggling with personal issues. Investigators are examining whether he had any history of mental health problems or prior criminal records.
“While the threat was fake, the seriousness of such an act cannot be ignored,” a senior Mumbai Police officer told reporters. “The 400 kg RDX threat email caused panic, mobilized resources, and endangered public confidence. Action will be taken under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and IT Act.”
Impact on Mumbai
The hoax threat brought back chilling memories of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, where RDX played a deadly role. Security forces treated the situation with utmost seriousness, as even a small lapse could have had grave consequences.
Citizens in Mumbai reported heightened security checks across railway stations, airports, and crowded markets following the email. While many expressed relief that the threat turned out to be false, others voiced concerns about the psychological impact of such hoaxes.
Legal Proceedings
The accused has been booked under stringent sections, including:
- IPC Section 505(1)(b): Statements conducive to public mischief.
- IPC Section 506: Criminal intimidation.
- Section 66 of the IT Act: Sending offensive or threatening messages through communication service.
He is expected to be produced before a magistrate in Mumbai after a transit remand from Noida is secured.
Government and Police Response
The Maharashtra Home Ministry issued a statement applauding the Mumbai Police for swift action in neutralizing the panic caused by the email. Officials reiterated the state’s zero-tolerance policy toward terror threats, whether real or fake.
Mumbai Police Commissioner emphasized, “Every threat is taken seriously. Even hoax emails drain critical resources, disrupt civic life, and spread fear. We will ensure exemplary punishment in this case.”
Public Reactions
Social media platforms were abuzz after news of the 400 kg RDX threat surfaced. While some users condemned the irresponsibility of the accused, others demanded stricter cyber laws to deter similar hoaxes in the future. Memes and satire also flooded online spaces, with many mocking the exaggerated scale of the threat.
Security experts, however, cautioned against dismissing the case lightly. “False alarms are dangerous because they can mask real threats. Each case forces authorities to spend money, time, and manpower that could otherwise be deployed more effectively,” noted a retired IPS officer.
Larger Implications
The incident highlights the growing challenge of cyber hoaxes in an age where misinformation spreads rapidly. It underscores the need for stronger cyber surveillance, public awareness, and deterrent penalties.
For Mumbai—a city often targeted in the past—this case reinforces the importance of preparedness. Authorities confirmed that despite the hoax, the quick mobilization served as a “real-time drill” to test response systems.
Conclusion
The arrest of the Patna man behind the 400 kg RDX threat email brings some closure to an alarming episode. While the threat turned out to be false, it has reignited discussions about cybersecurity, law enforcement challenges, and public trust in security systems.
Authorities have assured citizens that strict legal action will follow, ensuring that the message is clear: hoaxes that endanger lives and spread fear will not be tolerated.