In a swift and decisive operation, Guwahati Police apprehended a cadre of the banned United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) and an accomplice following a bomb threat at the bustling City Centre Mall on G S Road. The threat, which triggered a temporary shutdown of the mall and an evacuation of all patrons, led to heightened security measures across the city and ultimately resulted in the arrest of key operatives linked to the militant group.
City Centre Mall Evacuated Amid Bomb Threat
The alarming situation unfolded when City Centre Mall received a bomb threat via email, causing immediate concern and prompting security forces to clear the premises. Patrons and staff were instructed to leave the mall as security personnel, including the SSB, CRPF, and Assam Police, conducted a thorough search of the facility.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Mrinal Deka later confirmed that no suspicious items were found during the search. “An email was received mentioning that a bomb had been planted in City Centre. However, nothing suspicious turned up,” he stated, reassuring the public that the threat had been a hoax.
Crackdown on ULFA-I Intensifies: Key Arrests Made
As part of the intensified crackdown on ULFA-I, Basistha Police launched an operation based on intelligence inputs, which led to the arrest of ULFA-I cadre Pawan Darji in the Jalukbari area. During interrogation, Darji disclosed information about a linkman associated with the militant group. Acting on this tip-off, Jalukbari Police, under the leadership of IC Pritam Das, arrested the linkman, further disrupting the operations of the banned outfit.
Ongoing Investigations to Uncover Further Links
With the arrests made, investigations are now underway to uncover any further connections to the militant group and to prevent future threats. The quick response by Guwahati Police not only neutralized the immediate danger but also sent a strong message that such threats will be met with swift and decisive action.
Public Reassured Amid Rising Security Concerns
As Assam grapples with a series of bomb threats, the authorities continue to take all necessary precautions to ensure public safety. The bomb scare at City Centre Mall, while ultimately unfounded, served as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by militant groups like ULFA-I. However, the successful operation by Guwahati Police demonstrates the effectiveness of the security measures in place and reassures the public of their commitment to maintaining peace and order.
