Hoax bomb threats rise; accused traced in only 14 cases

Mysuru: Hoax bomb threats to courts and govt offices have become a recurring problem in Karnataka, police data shows. In the first two months of 2026 alone, the state recorded 39 such threats, taking the total number of hoax bomb cases to 468 since 2020.Data also reveals that, barring a handful of cases, police have failed to trace the accused behind these calls and emails.According to figures furnished by home minister G Parameshwara in response to a question raised by Mysuru–Mandya MLC Madhu G Madegowda, Bengaluru accounted for the highest number of cases this year, with 19 incidents. Mysuru and Mangaluru city police limits reported three cases each.The minister informed the house that 2025 saw the highest number of hoax bomb threats, with 159 cases reported that year. Bengaluru, Mangaluru and Mysuru have emerged as the most affected cities. So far, the accused have been traced in only 14 cases.Police sources said govt establishments and educational institutions are the most common targets. "In recent incidents, emails were sent in bulk to common email IDs of courts, revenue departments and other offices," a senior police officer said.Explaining the possible reasons behind such acts, Dr Raveesh BN, Professor and head of psychiatry at Mysuru Medical College and Research Institute, said multiple psychological and social factors could be involved. "Personality disorders are a major reason in some cases. Impulsivity, lack of self-regulation and social influences also prompt individuals to commit such offences," he said.No. of hoax bomb calls in each yearYear | Cases 2020 | 7 2021 | 6 2022 | 15 2023 | 153 2024 | 89 2025 | 159 2026 (till Feb 27) | 39 Source: Home department