RBI Receives Bomb Threat in Russian; Investigation Underway

Mumbai, India – The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has reportedly received a bomb threat delivered via email in the Russian language, causing significant concern and sparking a high-priority investigation by the Mumbai police.

The email, sent to the bank’s official address, allegedly warned of an imminent explosion targeting the RBI. The alarming message prompted the immediate registration of a case at the Mata Ramabai Marg (MRA Marg) police station against an unidentified individual.

Zone 1 Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) stated, “A threatening email in Russian was received on the official website of the Reserve Bank of India. The email threatened to blow up the bank. We have registered a case against unknown accused, and an investigation is actively underway.”

A threatening email in Russian was sent to @RBI, warning of a potential explosion. The Marg police have filed a case, and an investigation is underway, according to the @MumbaiPolice Zone 1. Deputy Commissioner of Police stated #ReserveBankofIndia pic.twitter.com/7Riti0mDNl

— Raghavan Jeeva (@raghavanjeeva) December 13, 2024

Rising Incidence of Bomb Threats Across Institutions

This incident follows a disturbing trend of bomb threats targeting institutions in India, including an alarming wave of threats directed at schools in Delhi earlier this month. On Friday, six schools across the capital received emailed bomb threats, prompting swift action by police and emergency services.

According to Delhi Fire Services, calls were received from:

• Bhatnagar International School, Paschim Vihar (4:21 am)
• Cambridge School, Shri Niwas Puri (6:23 am)
• DPS Amar Colony, East of Kailash (6:35 am)
• South Delhi Public School, Defence Colony (7:57 am)
• Delhi Police Public School, Safdarjung (8:02 am)
• Venkateshwar Global School, Rohini (8:30 am)

Authorities conducted thorough searches of all affected premises, ultimately declaring the threats hoaxes. Despite this outcome, these incidents have raised widespread alarm among parents and educational authorities.

Public Response

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed grave concern over the increasing frequency of such threats. “This is the second instance in a week. How will such threats impact the mental well-being of our children?” he questioned.

Ongoing Investigations

The Mumbai police, in collaboration with cybercrime experts, are working diligently to trace the origins of the threatening email sent to the RBI. The investigation includes decoding the message and identifying the sender through IP address tracking and other forensic methods.

While initial assessments suggest the possibility of a hoax similar to the Delhi school threats, authorities remain vigilant given the high-profile nature of the RBI.

Broader Implications

The rise in bomb threats, even if unfounded, underscores a growing need for heightened cybersecurity measures and public awareness. Threats targeting critical institutions like the RBI not only disrupt operations but also contribute to a climate of fear and uncertainty.

Authorities have urged citizens to report suspicious activities and reassured the public that all necessary precautions are being taken to ensure safety.

As the investigation unfolds, the priority remains identifying those responsible and addressing the vulnerabilities in communication systems that allow such threats to proliferate.