Mumbai on High Alert: Bomb threats at Taj Hotel and Airport
By Mehak Arora
Mumbai (Maharashtra), May 17, 2025– The city of Mumbai was once again gripped by fear as a bomb threat targeted two of its most prominent locations – the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.
The threat, received via email, referenced the hangings of convicted terrorists Afzal Guru and Saivku Shankar, warning of imminent attacks on these high-profile sites.
Upon receiving the threat, security forces sprang into action. Teams from the Mumbai Police, Bomb Disposal Squad, and Dog Squad promptly evacuated both locations and conducted thorough searches. Thankfully, no suspicious items were found during the operation.
Two ISIS Terrorists Arrested at Mumbai Airport
Amid heightened security, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) made a major breakthrough on Saturday morning, arresting two ISIS-linked terrorists at Terminal 2 of the Mumbai airport.
The individuals, identified as Abdullah Fayaz Sheikh alias 'Diaperwala' and Talha Khan, had reportedly arrived from Jakarta, Indonesia, and were attempting to slip through airport security unnoticed.
According to NIA sources, the arrests were made following a tip-off from an informant. Both men had been on the run for two years and were operating as part of ISIS sleeper cells in Pune.
They were wanted in connection with the manufacturing and testing of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and had non-bailable warrants issued against them by the NIA Special Court. A reward of ₹3 lakh had been announced for each.
Authorities conducted a detailed search of their belongings and have begun intensive interrogations.
Citywide Security Tightened
In response to the bomb threats and the arrests, Mumbai Police and central security agencies have increased vigilance throughout the city.
Enhanced checking operations are underway at sensitive and crowded areas, and a heightened police presence is visible across major transport hubs and landmarks.
Officials urge citizens to remain alert and report any suspicious activity. Investigations into the threats and potential links between the suspects and the bomb warning are ongoing.