Mumbai: Police arrested a 50-year-old astrologer from Patna after he sent a bomb threat to Mumbai Police using his Muslim friend’s name in an attempt to frame him. The threat, sent on WhatsApp, claimed that 14 Pakistani terrorists had entered the city with 400 kilograms of RDX planted in 34 vehicles. It further warned of a plan to kill one crore people.
The accused, identified as Ashwinikumar Sureshkumar Supra, was tracked down in Noida’s Sector 79. Investigators said he had switched off his phone after sending the message, but was traced using CCTV footage and local surveillance. Another man from Sorakha village was also arrested for providing the SIM card used in the threat.
Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Rajiv Narayan Mishra coordinated with Noida Police Commissioner Laxmi Singh to carry out the arrest with the help of a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team. Supra has since been handed over to Mumbai Police. Officials disclosed that he is currently undergoing a marital separation.
The threatening message, sent to the Mumbai Traffic Police helpline, mentioned a group called “Lashkar-e-Jihadi.” While police suspect it was a hoax, they are treating the matter seriously. Security across Mumbai has been heightened, with combing operations at sensitive locations.
Over 21,000 police personnel have been deployed for Anant Chaturdashi immersion processions. Authorities urged citizens to remain calm, avoid spreading rumors, and report any suspicious activity immediately. The Anti-Terrorism Squad has also been alerted, and a case has been registered at Worli police station.