Mumbai on High Alert After 34 Human Bombs Threat Message

Mumbai: Mumbai has been placed on high alert after police received a WhatsApp message warning of a potential terror attack involving multiple explosions across the city. The message claimed that “human bombs” had been planted in 34 vehicles and threatened to cause widespread devastation on the day of Anant Chaturdashi on Friday, which is the last day of Ganesh festival.

A message sent to the traffic police’s official WhatsApp claimed that human bombs were planted in 34 vehicles across Mumbai, warning that the city would be “shaken” by the blasts.

The message, allegedly from a group identifying itself as “Lashkar-e-Jihadi”, also claimed that 14 Pakistani terrorists had infiltrated India as part of the plot.

Authorities have responded by significantly reinforcing security measures across Mumbai, particularly at vulnerable locations and areas hosting large crowds expected to congregate for idol immersions. In light of this, the Crime Branch, ATS, and other agencies have launched a comprehensive probe to verify the threat and prevent any untoward incidents.

In a statement, the police said, “A claim has been made that 34 ‘human bombs’ have been planted in 34 vehicles across the city and the blast will shake entire Mumbai. The organisation, claiming to be ‘Lashkar-e-Jihadi’, says that 14 Pakistani terrorists have entered India. The threat message further states that 400 kgs of RDX will be used in the blast. Mumbai Police is alert and security across the state has been enhanced. All angles of the threat are being investigated.”

A senior Mumbai police officer said the threat appears to be a hoax, but security has been tightened across the city. Authorities are investigating from all angles and have launched a search for the sender, officials said.

According to reports, security has been beefed up at key locations, and combing operations are being conducted at various places. The police have also appealed to Mumbaikars not to believe rumours and to report any suspicious activity.

In preparation for the large-scale idol immersions on Anant Chaturdashi, Mumbai Police will deploy more than 21,000 personnel across the city to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of devotees. The massive deployment will cover immersion points, procession routes, and sensitive areas where large crowds are expected.

In a first, the police will also be leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to aid in route planning, crowd management, and traffic regulation. The AI-based system will help monitor real-time traffic flow, identify congestion points, and suggest alternative routes to ensure smoother movement of processions and general public traffic. Officials said this technology will enhance coordination among departments and improve response time in case of emergencies.

With thousands expected to participate in the final immersion processions, authorities have urged citizens to follow safety protocols, adhere to traffic advisories, and promptly report any suspicious activity.