PANAJI
A bomb threat targeting the headquarters of the Goa Police sent security forces into high alert on Saturday morning, prompting an extensive search operation that lasted nearly six hours.
The threat, received on the official email account of the Director General of Police (DGP), warned about an improvised explosive device (IED) attack.
The Bomb Disposal Squad and Dog Squad were quickly deployed while security units combed the premises for any suspicious activity or devices. The cyber crime unit simultaneously launched an investigation into the source of the email.
“At 9:09 am today, an email was received on DGP Goa email id containing threat of IED attack targeting DGP office. Immediately Goa police security unit and district police were put on high alert. They are conducting checks based on standard operating procedures laid down. Cyber crime unit is investigating the origin of the email,” Superintendent of Police and spokesperson Rahul Gupta said in a statement to the media.
The email -- circulated to all the agencies for quick action -- "confirmed" the attack had been orchestrated by international drug cartels and Pak ISI Cells, warning the threat should not be misconstrued as a mock drill.
“This is an urgent security alert regarding IED attack targeting the DGP office, Goa, orchestrated by international drug cartels in collusion with hostile state actors. The threat is linked to recent developments involving Jaffer Sadiq (DMK-related meth case) and suggests the use of sulphur peroxide based IEDs,” it stated.
The anonymous email further warned of detonation before 3 pm. “This is real. Evacuate immediately. No delays. No discussions. Clear the building now. Deploy bomb scanners – check everything. Walls. Vehicles. Trash. Everything. Shoot on sight if you see anything suspicious. No warnings. This is not a drill. Act now,” it stated.
After the extensive search operation, the search teams found no evidence of explosives or any other security threat. The email’s contents however raised concerns, particularly as it was also marked to an English newspaper (not The Goan).
