Did Jabalpur Airport's Bomb Threat Turn Out to be a Hoax?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jabalpur Airport operations have resumed after a bomb threat was deemed a hoax.
- A comprehensive emergency response was enacted, including the evacuation of the terminal.
- Authorities found no explosives following a thorough search.
- Similar threats were reported at over 40 airports in India.
- The public is urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Jabalpur, June 30 (NationPress) Following a false bomb threat that was sent through email to Jabalpur Airport last week, airport operations have now resumed, as confirmed by officials on Monday.
The threat prompted a comprehensive emergency response, necessitating the evacuation of the terminal and a thorough three-hour security sweep.
The email, which was directed to an airport official, alleged that powerful explosives were placed in bags throughout the airport area and warned of mass casualties if immediate evacuation did not occur.
It was purportedly signed by groups calling themselves "Road Kill" and "Kyon".
In response, airport authorities swiftly implemented emergency protocols.
In a statement to IANS, Sarojini Chouksey, the officer in charge at Khamaria police station, reported that the bomb detection and disposal squad (BDDS), along with local police, fire brigade units, and ambulances, were dispatched to the scene.
The terminal was evacuated of both passengers and staff while the BDDS conducted an exhaustive search of the airport.
Fortunately, no explosives or suspicious items were discovered during the investigation.
An FIR has been lodged against unidentified individuals.
The officer noted that all necessary security measures were adhered to and that the threat was ultimately categorized as a hoax.
"The airport has resumed operations," she confirmed.
This event was not an isolated incident.
Reports indicate that similar threatening emails were sent to at least 40 airports across India, including locations in Gorakhpur, Kanpur, Guwahati, and Indore.
Last month, a comparable message was received at the Ordnance Factory in Itarsi and at two private schools in Bhopal.
The coordinated nature of these threats has raised alarms among aviation security agencies and prompted a nationwide alert, according to police sources.
Investigations are ongoing, with cybercrime units assisting in tracing the source of the emails to determine if they are connected to any organized groups or individual pranksters.
While no explosives were detected at the airports in question, the threats resulted in significant delays and increased anxiety for travelers.
Security experts have stressed the importance of having strong cyber monitoring systems and quick response protocols to effectively manage such threats without causing panic.
Authorities have called on the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities.