Introduction

Bomb threats in India, especially in the tier-1 cities are becoming a growing concern. Some hoax, few still under investigation as were witnessed in Karnataka and Maharashtra recently have raised questions on security and preparedness. On 01 March, an explosion at the popular Rameshwaram Cafe Brookefield branch in Bengaluru’s Whitefiled area that injured around nine people have alarmed the entire Nation. Since then, new information is disclosed everyday, latest one being a suspected connection with Islamic State.

Additing to the concern, on 05 March, a mail threatening another blast near an Ambari Utsav bus (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation-run volvo service) on 09 March at 1448 hours, was sent to top cabinet ministers of the State. The mail also threatened explosion at busy places like restaurants, temples, buses or trains. Overall, tight security is being maintained across Karnataka and Maharashtra, especially in Bengaluru and Mumbai respectively, and other key locations of the country in response to the bomb threats and the upcoming General Elections. Therefore, it is essential for both businesses and individuals, especially in the metropolitan cities to practice strict vigilance and undertake precautionary measures as deemed necessary.

Latest Updates

• Heightened security and elaborate checks are in place near Rameshwaram Café Brookefield ahead of its reopening on 08 March in the evening hours. Presence of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and State Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara are expected.
• The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken four jailed terrors accused (Minaz alias Sulaiman, Syed Sameer, Anas Iqbal Sheikh and Shaan Rehaman) into custody for interrogation in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast after suspecting connections with Islamic State’s Ballari (in Karnataka) module. A special NIA court has granted the agency the custody of the four individuals until 09 March.
• Meanwhile, the movement of the main suspect has been revealed – on 05 March, he was seen near Tumakuru bus stand in Karnataka; on 06 March, he took a bus to Karnataka’s Gokarna from Mantralayam, Andhra Pradesh; on 07 March, he got off from the bus in Bhatkal, Karnataka (an area with reports of terror links).
• The mail threatening explosions on 09 March also came with a ransom ask of USD 2.5 Million from the mail id Shahidkhan10786@protonmail.com. Following which, KSRTC and Bengaluru City Police are conducting a joint inspection of all buses and bus-stands. Though commuters are asked to not panic, staff have been maintaining strict vigilance.
• So far, no official guideline has been issued by the Police, however, malls, hotels, restaurants, multiplexes, airports, and other public areas are likely to maintain high security checks across metropolitan cities.

Recommendations

Organisations:

• Given the threat is high on 09 March in Bengaluru, companies that are operating are advised toundertake suitable mitigation measures such as remote working, avoiding scheduling meetings at popular sites, etc.
• Ensure all security equipment like CCTVs, alarms, fire extinguishers, etc are working properly.
• Maintain strict entry-exit log.
• Update the cyber security policy of the company if required.
• Conduct strict background checks before new recruitments.
• Stay abreast of updates from local authorities and law enforcement agencies regarding the investigation into the incident.
• Review and reinforce crisis communication procedures to effectively communicate with employees, clients, and stakeholders in case of emergencies.
• Ensure clear lines of communication to support employees travelling in the areas.
• Conduct emergency response drills to ensure staff are prepared for similar incidents.
• Keep emergency supplies such as first aid kits, water, and non-perishable food items readily accessible.
• Implement strict protocols for the storage, handling, and transportation of gas cylinders or other explosive material within the organisation building, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Establish clear evacuation routes and assembly points to facilitate a swift and orderly evacuation in case of an emergency.

Individuals:

• Remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities promptly.
• Advised to not get panicked and rely on official/ verified information as there could be a surge in potential increase in circulation of WhatsApp forwards or sensational news ahead of the General Elections.
• In view of the reopening of the cafe’s Brookfield branch in Bengaluru and anticipated VVIP and media presence, traffic restrictions remain likely in the vicinity in the evening hours of 08 March. Surge in footfall is highly likely at the cafe, especially during weekends. Visitors are advised to not rush and adhere by the security measures in place.
• Heightened security measures are also anticipated at transportation hubs, such as railway and metro stations and airports. It is thereby advised to keep all relevant ID cards or soft copies readily accessible and consider additional travel time.
• Familiarise with emergency exit routes and evacuation procedures in public spaces.
• Stay informed through reliable news sources and official updates from local authorities. Exercise caution when visiting crowded areas and always prioritise personal safety.
• Avoid sharing unverified information or rumours about the incident on social media platforms to prevent panic and misinformation.

Dos and Don’ts During Active Bomb Threats

Emergency Contact and Source Links

• Police – 100
• Maharashtra Police Essential Numbers –https://mumbaipolice.maharashtra.gov.in/emergencynumbers.asp
• Delhi Bomb Disposal Squads – https://delhi.gov.in/page/bomb-disposal-squads
• Karnataka State Police – https://ksp.karnataka.gov.in/page/Contact+Us/en
• Telangana Emergency Numbers – https://www.tspolice.gov.in/jsp/emergency.jsp
• Tamil Nadu State Police – https://eservices.tnpolice.gov.in/CCTNSNICSDC/Contact
• West Bengal CID Contact – https://cidwestbengal.gov.in/contact_us; Report an Incident

Contact Us