On October 16, 2024, the skies over India were filled with tension as multiple bomb threats disrupted air travel, affecting both Air India and IndiGo flights. The incidents have raised significant concerns about aviation security and the safety of passengers. The situation took a dramatic turn when a teenager was detained by Mumbai police for allegedly posting these bomb threats on social media.
By Aditya M
The Bomb Threats
The bomb threats began on October 14, 2024, when several flights received alarming messages. An Air India flight bound for New York from Mumbai was diverted to Delhi following a bomb threat. The aircraft, carrying 239 passengers, made an emergency landing at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Authorities conducted a thorough security sweep of the plane, adhering strictly to safety protocols. Fortunately, no suspicious items were found, and all passengers were safely evacuated and accommodated.
IndiGo also faced similar threats on the same day. Two of its flights, one bound for Jeddah and the other for Muscat, received bomb threats shortly before takeoff. Both aircraft were relocated to isolated bays at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai for comprehensive security checks. Passengers were provided with refreshments and updates while the security protocols were carried out.
The Culprit
The investigation led to the detention of a 17-year old boy from Chhattisgarh. The teenager allegedly posted the bomb threats on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to frame a friend due to a financial dispute. The police tracked him down as the operator of the X account used to send the threats. The boy was brought to Mumbai for further questioning and will remain in custody until October 24, 2024.
Broader Impact
The bomb threats extended beyond air travel, affecting the Mumbai-Howrah Mail train as well. The train was stopped at Jalgaon station for a thorough inspection after a bomb threat was received. This series of threats has triggered emergency responses and heightened security measures across the country.
Conclusion
These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety and security of air travel. While the immediate threats were neutralized without any harm, they serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in the aviation sector. Authorities are likely to review and strengthen security protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.
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