Was a RDX Blast Threat During Ganeshotsav Foiled by Bihar Cyber Crime Police?

A recent threat to Mumbai during the Ganeshotsav festival caused widespread panic, as a message claimed that 400 kg of RDX was planted in 34 vehicles across the city, potentially endangering over one crore lives. The suspect, identified as Ashwin Supra, is a habitual cyber fraudster who previously made threats and conducted scams. This article delves into the details of the incident, the suspect's background, and the broader context of threats faced by Mumbai.

Last updated: 07 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Ashwin Supra, a habitual cyber fraudster, has been arrested for sending a bomb threat to Mumbai Traffic Police.
• The threat claimed 400 kg of RDX was hidden in 34 vehicles, risking over one crore lives.
• Previous criminal activities include a cyber scam involving impersonation of customs officials in Bihar.
• Similar hoax threats have plagued Mumbai recently, creating public fear.
• Authorities acted quickly, involving multiple police units across states to apprehend the suspect.

The Threat and Its Implications

The threat message sent to the Mumbai Traffic Police, purporting to be from a terrorist organisation named Lashkar-e-Jihadi, included alarming references to human bombs and explosives. This caused significant concern, particularly since the message arrived just before Anant Chaturdashi, a vital day in the Ganeshotsav celebrations. The timing of the threat raised alarms within the police force, prompting immediate action.

Impact on Public Safety

The Mumbai Police's swift response involved alerting various intelligence agencies. Surveillance and investigations were quickly initiated to ascertain the legitimacy of the threat, given the implications it could have on public safety during a time of celebration. The police's proactive measures were essential in ensuring the safety of the immense crowds expected during the festival.

Ashwin Supra: The Cyber Fraudster

Investigations into the threat led to the identification of Ashwin Supra, who hails from Bihar but had been residing in Noida. Authorities discovered that Supra had a history of cyber fraud, including a significant scam where he impersonated a customs officer to defraud a bookshop owner out of ₹8 lakh. This incident took place on 5 May, showcasing a pattern of deceit that the suspect had established over time.

Criminal Background and Arrest

The Bihar Police were alerted to Ashwin’s criminal activities following the Mumbai threat. Upon arriving in Mumbai, they arrested him, recovering seven SIM cards linked to various cyber frauds. Additionally, he had two existing criminal cases registered in Patna, underlining his established pattern of criminal behaviour.

The Broader Context of Threats in Mumbai

The threat made by Ashwin is not an isolated incident. Mumbai has recently faced a series of similar hoaxes. In August, an anonymous caller claimed that bombs were planted in local trains, causing panic. Further threats were directed at schools, government offices, and even high-profile locations like the Four Seasons Hotel, with reports of bomb threats sent via email.

Understanding the Motivations Behind Hoax Threats

Such threats, while often hoaxes, can have severe repercussions. They create panic and divert police resources away from genuine threats. The motivations behind these acts can vary, from seeking attention to causing chaos. Understanding these behaviours is crucial for law enforcement agencies to develop effective strategies for prevention and response.

Law Enforcement Response

In light of these recent threats, law enforcement agencies have ramped up their vigilance. The collaboration between the Mumbai Police and other regional forces, such as the Noida Police and Bihar Police, highlights the importance of inter-state cooperation in addressing cyber threats. This case exemplifies how quickly authorities can mobilise resources to neutralise threats, even when they originate from different regions.

Preventive Measures and Community Awareness

Authorities encourage public awareness and vigilance in reporting suspicious activities. Community engagement plays a vital role in enhancing security and ensuring that potential threats are reported promptly. Education on recognising fraudulent communications and the importance of verifying information before reacting can help mitigate panic during such crises.

Conclusion: The Need for Continued Vigilance

The incident involving Ashwin Supra underscores the persistent threat of cyber fraud and the impact of malicious communications on public safety. As Mumbai continues to celebrate its rich cultural festivals, the need for vigilance remains critical. Authorities must balance public safety with the need to avoid unnecessary panic, ensuring that genuine threats are taken seriously while also addressing the underlying issues that lead to such hoaxes.

How can communities better protect themselves against the rising tide of cyber threats? It's a question worth pondering as we reflect on the delicate balance between celebration and safety in urban environments. #MumbaiSafety #CyberFraud #Ganeshotsav

FAQs

What is Ganeshotsav?

Ganeshotsav is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, marked by vibrant processions, prayers, and cultural events. It is particularly significant in Maharashtra, especially Mumbai.

What measures are taken by police during festivals?

During festivals, police increase patrolling, set up surveillance, and engage in community outreach to ensure public safety and manage potential threats effectively.

What are common types of cyber fraud?

Common types of cyber fraud include phishing scams, identity theft, and impersonation, where criminals deceive victims into providing personal information or money.

How can individuals protect themselves from cyber fraud?

Individuals can protect themselves by being cautious with sharing personal information, using strong passwords, and verifying the identity of anyone requesting sensitive data.

What should someone do if they receive a threat message?

If someone receives a threat message, they should report it to the police immediately, avoid engaging with the sender, and ensure their safety and that of others.