Team Goemkarponn
VASCO: The recent bomb scare at BITS Pilani, Sancoale, which turned out to be a hoax, is just another instance in a long list of false bomb threats that have rattled Mormugao Taluka over the past few years. While such threats often lead to panic and large-scale security operations, they have also become so frequent that many locals have started dismissing them as routine hoaxes.
The Mormugao Taluka, home to Goa’s Dabolim Airport, the Mormugao Port, and several educational institutions, has witnessed at least five major hoax bomb threats in the past two years. Most of these incidents have targeted the Goa International Airport in Dabolim, causing significant disruptions to flights and passenger movements.
Chronology of Recent Hoax Bomb Threats in Mormugao Taluka
1. January 9, 2023 – Hoax Bomb Threat on Russian Charter Flight
A bomb threat was reported on board a Russian charter flight (Azur Airways) heading to Goa. Security agencies were immediately alerted, and the flight was diverted to Jamnagar Airport, where a full-scale investigation took place. After hours of rigorous checks, authorities confirmed it was a hoax. The flight, carrying 244 passengers, finally landed in Goa the next day.
2. January 21, 2023 – Another Hoax Threat Forces Flight Diversion
Barely two weeks later, another Azur Airways charter flight carrying 247 passengers was diverted—this time to Uzbekistan—after the Goa Airport director received a bomb threat email. The flight was scheduled to land at Dabolim Airport at 4:15 AM, but following security protocols, it was redirected. A thorough investigation revealed no explosive devices, confirming yet another hoax.
3. July 29, 2023 – Bomb Threat Call at Dabolim Airport
A mystery caller reported a bomb planted at Goa International Airport, leading to chaos. CISF, ATS, the Bomb Disposal Squad, and the Dog Squad were deployed immediately. Passenger movement was restricted, and a thorough search was conducted. Security was heightened, but the threat was ultimately deemed a false alarm.
4. April 29, 2024 – Fake Bomb Threat at Both Goa Airports
Dabolim and Manohar International Airport (Mopa) were placed on high alert after an email claiming bombs had been planted at multiple airports was received at 9:30 AM. Emergency security checks were conducted by ATS, CISF, fire brigade, and police teams, but no explosives were found. The incident was confirmed to be a hoax.
5. October 27, 2024 – Twitter Bomb Threat Targets Indigo Airlines
A Twitter/X account, “@Adamlanza1000” (username: Adam Lanza), issued a bomb threat targeting Indigo Airlines at Dabolim Airport. The airline, along with security forces, conducted an immediate investigation. The threat was confirmed to be fake, but authorities registered an offense under multiple sections of the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against Safety of Civil Aviation Act, 1982.
6. February 7, 2025 – Hoax Bomb Threat at BITS Pilani Campus
An email claiming RDX was planted in the BITS Pilani auditorium sent shockwaves through the Sancoale-based campus, which was hosting a three-day national-level event with 4,500 students present. The premises were evacuated, and security teams including ATS, BDDS, fire brigade, and police conducted a thorough search. No explosives were found, confirming yet another hoax.
Why is Mormugao a Frequent Target for Hoax Bomb Threats?
Presence of High-Security Installations – Dabolim Airport, Mormugao Port, Defence installations and major educational institutions make the taluka a sensitive zone. Increased Tourism Activity – Goa’s status as a tourist hotspot means any disruption at the airport or major transport hubs affects thousands of people. Ease of Creating Panic – The psychological impact of such threats, especially at airports and colleges, makes them a preferred target for pranksters and miscreants.
The Impact of Hoax Calls
Wasted Resources: Every hoax call triggers a massive security operation, involving police, ATS, BDDS, CISF, and emergency responders.
Panic & Public Inconvenience: Passengers and students face delays, evacuations, and psychological distress.
Legal Consequences: Authorities have started registering criminal offenses against hoax callers, but identifying culprits remains challenging.
Authorities on High Alert
With the increasing frequency of hoax bomb threats, authorities at Dabolim Airport and key installations in Mormugao Taluka have tightened security protocols. Officials urge the public and airport workers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities immediately.
While security forces treat every threat seriously, locals in Mormugao have grown accustomed to these false alarms. However, each incident remains a test of preparedness for real emergencies, ensuring that Goa remains safe for both residents and tourists.
