Bomb hoax at IHM Porivorim, unknown email creates panic

Panaji: The Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) in Porvorim experienced some anxious moments after an anonymous email claimed that an explosive device was placed on the campus. After a thorough search of the college premises, the email turned out to be a hoax.

The college received the email, with the subject 'Urgent concern regarding catering campus safety. Evacuate all staff and students soon!', at around 11am on Monday while the students were answering their examination. After the completion of the exam at around 12.15pm, all students left the premises safely.

The email, which was addressed to the principal, stated, “I am writing to bring to your attention a serious concern regarding the presence of mobile RDX-based IEDs on campus, which may be an attempt to divert attention from the ongoing ‘Yaar Antha Sir’ issue and the Jaffer Sadiq meth case in Tamil Nadu.

“The safety of our students and staff is paramount, and I urge you to immediately enhance security measures, conduct thorough checks, and collaborate with law enforcement to ensure the Goan catering institute campus remains secure. Your prompt action in this matter is crucial. Evacuate all students soon!” The sender of the email mentioned Kanyakumari in his email.

The college informed police control room about the email, and Porvorim police rushed to the site to conduct the investigation.

Anti-terrorist squad (ATS), bomb detection and disposal squad, paramedics, and fire and emergency services personnel were present at the college campus during the search operation. The hoax email was received a few days before a national-level programme at the college.

Superintendent of police (SP) (North Goa) Akshat Kaushal said upon receiving the information, immediate action was taken as per Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for such threats.

“A coordinated response was initiated, involving the bomb disposal squad, ATS and staff from North Goa district. The teams swiftly reached the institution and conducted a comprehensive search and investigation. After a meticulous search of the premises, no explosive substances or suspicious materials were found, and the institution was declared safe,” Kaushal said.

“At present, a team from North Goa district is conducting a detailed analysis of the threatening email to trace the sender and verify its authenticity,” he said.


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