The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has received a chilling threat via email, sparking a multi-agency investigation. The email, written in Russian, warned of plans to blow up the central bank’s premises with explosives. The Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Marg (MRA) police have registered a case against an unknown individual in this regard.
Details of the Threat
The threatening email, received on Thursday afternoon, marks the second such incident targeting the RBI in recent times. Earlier, the RBI’s customer service number was contacted by an individual claiming to be the “CEO of Lashkar-e-Taiba.” The caller demanded the bank’s closure, issuing vague threats before abruptly hanging up.
Reserve Bank security guard Gopal Chauhan promptly filed a complaint with the MRA police station following the email. Law enforcement agencies, including the crime branch, have been mobilized to trace the source of the email and phone call.
Threat Response and Investigations
The email’s use of Russian language has prompted suspicions of foreign involvement, though no definitive link has been established. A police official stated, “The threatening nature of the email and its language suggests a calculated attempt to disrupt security operations. We are working closely with cyber experts to identify the IP address and trace the sender.”
Steps Taken by Authorities:
- The Mumbai Police have issued alerts to all intelligence and security agencies.
- The crime branch has initiated a thorough investigation, focusing on the email’s origin and the previous threatening call.
- Cybercrime specialists are examining digital footprints left by the sender.
Background: Previous Threats
This is not the first time the Reserve Bank has been targeted. In the previous incident, the caller made ominous statements before disconnecting. Security protocols were enhanced after the initial threat, and the current incident has further heightened vigilance around RBI offices.
Security Measures Tightened
As investigations continue, the RBI has implemented robust security measures to safeguard its premises and employees. Authorities are not ruling out the possibility of coordinated attempts to cause panic or disrupt financial operations.
