Bomb, riot threats put Mumbai on high alert ahead of Eid celebrations

Mumbai: A few days before Eid-ul-Fitr, Mumbai Police received a social media message warning of potential communal riots, arson, and bomb blasts in the city. The anonymous threat, posted on the micro-blogging platform X on Thursday, claimed that "illegal Rohingya, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani infiltrators" in areas like Dongri could incite violence between March 31 and April 1, 2025.

The message, which tagged Navi Mumbai Police, urged law enforcement agencies to remain alert. After being alerted by their Navi Mumbai counterparts, Mumbai Police swiftly increased security measures across the metropolis, with heightened patrols in areas flagged as sensitive.

"Apart from Mumbai Police personnel, the Crime Branch, the Anti-Terrorism Squad, and the Special Branch are also on heightened vigilance," an official stated, adding that no suspicious activity had been reported so far.

Mumbai has been on high alert in recent weeks following violent clashes in Nagpur. With the upcoming festivals of Eid and Gudi Padwa, security agencies have been conducting precautionary exercises. The Free Press Journal reported that MIDC Police conducted a mock drill and route march in the Marol Makhwan Nagar area on March 22 to test preparedness.

Similar threat to Delhi Police

The same individual reportedly sent a similar message to Delhi Police, warning of possible riots and bomb blasts in the national capital. The post, written in Hindi, urged Delhi authorities, including Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, to remain vigilant, specifically mentioning Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, and Jahangirpuri as potential hotspots.

While Mumbai and Delhi Police continue to monitor the situation, authorities have not confirmed the credibility of the threat. Investigations are underway to trace the source of the messages and verify their authenticity. Law enforcement agencies have urged citizens to remain calm and report any suspicious activity immediately.