A chilling bomb threat sent via email led to the swift evacuation of the Barmer district collectorates in Rajasthan on Tuesday. The anonymous threat also specifically targeted the Chennai residences of legendary Tamil actor Rajinikanth and renowned music composer Ilaiyaraaja.
Details of the Threat Email and Immediate Response
The alarming email landed in the official inbox of the Barmer district collector late on Monday night at 10:45 pm. Barmer Superintendent of Police (SP) Narendra Singh Meena stated that the message claimed three RDX explosives had been planted at the collectorates building. It further warned of bombs at the homes of the two Tamil cultural icons, with a threat of detonation by noon the following day.
District Collector Tina Dabi explained that her personal assistant discovered the email on Tuesday morning and immediately alerted her and the SP. Acting without delay, authorities ordered the evacuation of the collectorates premises to ensure staff and public safety.
Extensive Search Operation by Security Forces
A comprehensive two-hour search operation was launched around 11 am on Tuesday. Teams from the local police, bomb detection and disposal squads, and dog squads meticulously combed through the collectorates building. The operation involved multiple investigative agencies working in coordination.
Despite the detailed search, no suspicious items or explosives were found on the premises. Following the all-clear from the security teams, normal activities resumed at the collectorates later in the day.
Investigation and Pattern of Similar Threats
SP Narendra Singh Meena revealed that this incident is not isolated. He indicated that 10 to 15 similar threat emails have been received across various locations in Rajasthan just this month. Intriguingly, many of these threats are later followed by apology emails. A First Information Report (FIR) will be registered in connection with the Barmer incident.
While the specific threat proved to be a hoax, authorities deemed the search operation absolutely necessary given the grave nature of the allegations. An investigation is now actively underway to trace the origin of the email and identify the individual or group responsible for creating panic and disrupting official work.
