Mumbai was thrown into a state of high alert on September 5, 2025, after its Traffic Police received a chilling WhatsApp message warning of 34 “human bombs” placed inside vehicles across the city, along with 400 kilograms of RDX allegedly brought in by 14 Pakistani terrorists linked to a group calling itself Lashkar-e-Jihadi. The threat message, which claimed the explosives would “shake the entire Mumbai,” immediately triggered large-scale security operations across India’s financial capital.
The timing of the scare was particularly alarming as the city was preparing for Anant Chaturdashi, the grand finale of the Ganesh festival, when thousands of devotees gather for processions and idol immersions. Authorities feared that the festival crowds could become potential targets if the threat was real.
Mumbai on High Alert
Following the message, Mumbai Police wasted no time in mobilizing forces. Over 21,000 police personnel were deployed across sensitive areas, traffic checks were intensified, and bomb disposal squads were dispatched to comb busy zones, railway stations, and festival venues. Senior officers also called in the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and cyber teams to trace the origin of the message.
Although initial assessments suggested the message might be a hoax, police officials stressed that they could not afford to take chances. With Mumbai’s history of terror attacks and the ongoing festive season, the city was placed on maximum alert, and citizens were urged to remain vigilant but calm.
By September 6, investigators had traced the origin of the WhatsApp threat to Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Acting swiftly, the Crime Branch arrested 50-year-old Ashwin Kumar Supra, a Bihar native residing in Noida. According to officials, Supra allegedly used his own mobile phone and SIM card to send the threatening message.
During the raid, the police seized digital devices linked to the message, including Supra’s phone. He has since been placed under custody and is being transported to Mumbai for further interrogation. Investigators are working to determine whether the threat was a deliberate attempt to create panic, an act of mischief, or part of a larger conspiracy.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are not ruling out any possibilities. The ATS, along with cyber forensic experts, is analyzing digital trails, contacts, and communication records. Officials have also reached out to central intelligence agencies to cross-check if Supra had any links to organized terror outfits.
Police sources indicated that while the arrested man does not appear to have direct terrorist affiliations, his actions are being taken with utmost seriousness. Even a false threat of this scale can disrupt law and order, create panic, and divert security resources during a sensitive time.
Public Reactions and Security Measures
News of the “human bomb” scare quickly spread across Mumbai, sparking anxiety among citizens. However, the quick action by police to track and arrest the suspect has helped restore a sense of calm.
Ganesh festival organizers have assured full cooperation with security agencies. Extra CCTV surveillance, restricted entry points, and drone monitoring have been introduced at major visarjan sites. Authorities also appealed to the public not to share unverified rumors on social media, as misinformation can worsen panic during such situations.
Even if the threat turns out to be a hoax, experts warn that such incidents highlight the vulnerabilities of urban security systems. In recent years, police across India have been flooded with prank calls and fake bomb threats, often traced to disgruntled individuals or those seeking attention. Yet, each threat forces agencies to respond as though it were real, stretching resources and heightening public fear.
Legal experts point out that Supra could face serious charges under sections related to terrorism, criminal intimidation, and creating public alarm, all of which carry severe penalties.
Conclusion
The arrest of Ashwin Kumar Supra in Noida has brought relief to Mumbai, but the investigation continues to determine his motives and possible connections. For now, Mumbai remains under tight security as the city prepares for its grand Ganesh immersion ceremonies.
This episode serves as a reminder of how fragile urban peace can be in the face of even a single threatening message. Whether a calculated plan or a reckless prank, the consequences are far-reaching—testing the city’s security, straining its law enforcement, and unsettling millions of its residents.
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