Never-ending threats targeting Kerala

With the Prime Minister's visit scheduled to take place in just over two days, the continuous spate of fake bomb threats in the state is a matter that warrants serious attention. In addition to the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and Central Railway Station, the threats have even knocked on the doors of the Chief Minister's office, his official residence, Cliff House, and the Nedumbassery International Airport. Although the police conducted detailed inspections with the help of the dog squad and bomb squad, nothing suspicious was found. The threats of bombs planted at airports, railway stations, and other public places pose significant challenges to travellers and the general public.

The threats have already resulted in many flights getting delayed. In addition to the loss of time, there will also be financial losses. Treating this spate of incidents as facetious may be fine for the time being, but the looming danger is not to be diddled with. Officials need to ramp up work to see any involvement of extremists in this business.

It is necessary to monitor the steps taken by the police when a bomb threat is made and understand the loopholes.

Threatening messages were received at six locations in Thiruvananthapuram over the past three days. The message was sent to the email address of the manager at the international airport. The threat pointed to an impending bomb blast within three hours at the airport. As a result, the security department had to conduct a three-hour search at the airport.

Although the cyber police have registered about ten cases in the capital regarding fake bomb threats, the perpetrators have not been caught. Bomb threats have also been made at places like the Vanchiyoor District Court and three-star hotels.

The police have found that a native of Andhra Pradesh is behind the bomb threats at Thampanoor railway station and Nedumbassery airport. The Telangana police confirmed that the message was sent by Nidheesh, a native of Warangal. However, the authenticity of this person's role in the crime remains ambiguous, as it is no big deal to hack anyone's account these days for such anti-national activities.

Therefore, a detailed investigation should be conducted, the real culprits should be identified, and the maximum punishment should be ensured. Measures should be taken against such people, including a permanent travel ban on flights.

Action should also be taken to calculate the losses incurred by various institutions due to the fake bomb threat and recover them from the accused. Meanwhile, Microsoft's refusal to share information about the source of fake bomb threat emails is tantamount to abetting such acts.

The cybercrime police have sent several emails, but Microsoft officials have refused to provide any information. The police should also be prepared to take legal action against Microsoft in this regard.