Hoax Bomb Threat Targets DRDO Facility in Bengaluru via Anonymous Email
An anonymous email threatening a bomb attack at the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a facility under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in CV Raman Nagar, Bengaluru, was received on March 5. The premises were thoroughly searched, and authorities declared the threat a hoax, with no explosives found.
Details of the Threatening Email and Immediate Response
According to a complaint filed by Lieutenant Colonel Sunny Rathee, the divisional head at GTRE, the threat arrived around 4:25 AM on March 5. It was sent from the email address ajitham_kudumba@outlook.com to the official GTRE email director.gtre@gov.in. The message claimed that 14 explosive formed projectile (EXP) improvised explosive devices (IEDs) filled with cyanide gas had been planted inside the GTRE premises.
The email warned that a potential blast could cause damage within a 1.75-kilometer radius and urged authorities to evacuate all staff by 11 AM to avoid casualties. It also alleged that drones were used to plant the devices and included references to extremist groups and unverified claims, such as links to the LTTE-Pak ISI nexus and individuals like Dr. Ezhilan Naganathan.
Police Investigation and Declaration as Hoax
Following the threatening email, the complainant approached the police, seeking legal action against the unknown sender. Law enforcement initiated an inquiry to trace the email's origin and verify the threat. A senior officer stated that the threat was a hoax, part of a larger attempt to create panic.
The email was noticed a few hours after it was sent, prompting the immediate evacuation of all staff from the premises. The bomb detection and disposal squad (BDDS) was deployed to conduct a thorough search. No explosives were discovered, leading authorities to declare the incident a hoax.
Legal Action Under Cyber Terrorism Laws
A case has been registered under Section 66F of the Information Technology Act, which deals with punishment for cyber terrorism, at the Byappanahalli police station in Bengaluru. This legal step underscores the seriousness with which such threats are treated, even when proven false, due to their potential to disrupt operations and incite fear.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about cybersecurity and the misuse of digital platforms for spreading misinformation and threats against critical infrastructure. Authorities continue to investigate to identify the sender and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
