Chennai Police Investigates 342 Bomb Threats Since April: Anti-Terrorism Squad Takes Over

The Chennai City Police have implemented intensified security measures, conducting thorough vehicle inspections at major intersections since Monday evening.

In Chennai, Commissioner A Arun of the Greater Chennai Police has disclosed that 342 bomb threats have been reported throughout the city since April 2024, targeting significant establishments and notable individuals.

During a Wednesday statement, Commissioner Arun announced that the investigation into these numerous threats has been officially transferred to the Tamil Nadu Police's Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).

The commissioner emphasized their rigorous approach to security concerns, stating, "Every threat receives serious consideration. Depending on the nature of each complaint, we either register a formal FIR or document it in the Community Service Register (CSR)."

Senior police officials have noted that these threats, primarily delivered via email, exhibit consistent patterns in their phrasing and sentence structure. This similarity has led investigators to hypothesize that the threats may originate from either a single individual or a coordinated small group.

"While most of these hoax messages are transmitted using TOR browsers or VPNs to mask the sender's IP address, our investigations suggest the messages likely originated within Chennai itself," explained a high-ranking officer.

Police sources revealed that Chennai City Police are collaborating with central agencies, as similar threatening communications have been reported across several major Indian cities. Some cases have been traced to individuals with mental health issues or minors, who were released on station bail after receiving stern warnings, though authorities have taken firm action in more serious instances.

Last month, authorities arrested a physically challenged individual for sending a false bomb threat to the Chief Minister's residence. Subsequent investigation identified him as a repeat offender with prior charges for similar offenses.

Following numerous hoax threats directed at foreign consulates in Chennai, Commissioner Arun conducted meetings with consulate representatives to brief them on implemented security measures and reassure them about the city's safety protocols.

In response to the recent explosion in Delhi, Chennai City Police have heightened security protocols with increased vehicle inspections at key locations since Monday night. Commissioner Arun clarified, "While no specific threat to Chennai exists, we are maintaining enhanced vigilance without creating unnecessary public alarm."