Panic triggered by email
Kochi: A bomb threat sent via email to the Government Medical College Hospital (GMCH), Ernakulum, caused panic on Thursday. Police were immediately alerted, and a detailed search of the hospital premises was conducted. The threat was later confirmed to be a hoax.
Police Register Case
Investigation launched
The Kalamassery Police registered a case and began an investigation after hospital authorities received the email at the official address of the medical college principal.
Threat Details
Alleged RDX explosion
The email warned that an RDX explosion would occur around 1.30 pm, claiming the blast would damage the hospital building and facilities and put patients, doctors, and others at risk.
Immediate Response
Bomb squad inspection
Police teams, along with the bomb squad, carried out a thorough inspection of the hospital complex. After an extensive search, officials confirmed that no explosives or suspicious materials were found.
Source of Email
Outlook ID identified
Police officials stated the threatening email originated from an Outlook mail ID. The message repeated the threat of damage to the hospital and danger to those inside, including patients and doctors.
Similar Past Incident
Kozhikode Medical College
A similar incident occurred at Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital in January, where a bomb threat email was later confirmed as a hoax. Security and surveillance across the campus were subsequently tightened.
Heightened Vigilance
Ongoing precautionary measures
Following the Kozhikode incident, Medical Dialogues reported that authorities increased inspections and monitoring. Multiple checks by the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad confirmed the threat was fake, though security vigilance continues.
Preliminary Investigation
Details of the Kozhikode threat
According to preliminary findings, the Kozhikode threat email was received on January 7 at the official email address of Medical College Principal Sajeev Kumar. The incident reinforced the need for strict security protocols at medical college campuses.
