Thiruvananthapuram: Security checks were carried out at Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s official residence, Cliff House, and a private bank in Palayam on Monday after authorities received an email claiming that explosives had been planted at both locations, police said.

The search was initiated after the CM’s private secretary received the threatening email. A dog squad and bomb detection team were deployed to inspect both sites.

“It was later confirmed to be a hoax,” an official said.

Police noted that similar emails targeting the CM’s residence have been received multiple times in the past. “In all these emails, the sender mentioned political developments in Tamil Nadu and cases registered there,” they added.

A case has been registered, and an investigation is ongoing. Officials stated that the emails were sent using dark web applications, which makes it challenging to trace the sender. “However, as a precautionary measure, checks are conducted whenever such emails are received,” one official explained.

The Chief Minister is currently on an overseas trip. He arrived in Dubai on Sunday for a three-day visit.

PTI