Security Tightened at Patna Airport Following Hoax Bomb Threat

On Saturday, heightened security measures were implemented at Jayaprakash Narayan International (JPNI) Airport in Patna after authorities received a bomb threat via email, according to official statements. The threat was received on Friday night at approximately 9 PM on the official email ID of the airport director. The email alarmed authorities, prompting swift action to assess the situation and ensure passenger and airport safety.

In response to the threat, the Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) was immediately convened. This committee, which is responsible for evaluating the credibility and seriousness of such threats, conducted a detailed assessment. Following their investigation, BTAC classified the threat as "non-specific" and labeled it a hoax. A non-specific threat generally implies that the message lacked detailed or credible information about the nature, timing, or location of the alleged bomb, reducing the likelihood of an actual threat while still warranting serious precautionary measures.

Despite the assessment deeming the threat to be false, security was significantly tightened across the airport premises. Patna Central Superintendent of Police (SP), Diksha, confirmed that law enforcement and airport authorities were not taking any chances. She noted that additional security personnel were deployed, and existing protocols were reinforced to ensure the safety of all individuals within the airport area.

Authorities have also launched a technical investigation to trace the source of the threatening email. The police and cybersecurity experts are working to identify the IP address from which the email was sent. Tracking the digital footprint of the sender is essential not only for legal action but also to deter future hoax threats that can disrupt airport operations and create unnecessary panic among passengers and staff.

SP Diksha emphasized that although the bomb threat was ultimately a hoax, officials took it seriously and responded promptly. The incident highlighted the importance of rapid coordination between airport management, security forces, and bomb threat experts. It also underscored the need for advanced surveillance and cybersecurity infrastructure at critical public transportation hubs like airports.

Airport authorities issued a formal statement on Saturday, reaffirming that all appropriate steps had been taken to investigate the matter and ensure the safety of passengers and operations. They reiterated that while the threat turned out to be non-specific and false, every precaution was followed as per protocol.

This incident brings attention to the growing concern of cyber-based threats targeting public institutions and infrastructure. Hoax bomb threats, while not physically harmful, can lead to operational disruptions, public fear, and wastage of security resources. Hence, such acts are treated as serious criminal offenses under law.

As the investigation continues, airport operations have returned to normal, but vigilance remains high. Officials assure the public that all necessary safety and security measures are in place and urge citizens to remain calm and report any suspicious activity immediately.

In summary, a hoax bomb threat via email led to increased security at Patna's JPNI Airport, prompt emergency response, and the initiation of a cyber investigation, illustrating both preparedness and the seriousness with which authorities treat such incidents.