US Visa Denial: 1 Arrested for Bomb Threat Call

A 23-year-old man from Parel, Mumbai, was arrested on Sunday after allegedly making a hoax bomb threat call to the U.S. Consulate in Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), reportedly out of frustration following the denial of his U.S. student visa.

Consulate Receives Threat Call

The consulate received an anonymous call on June 15 in Hindi, claiming that a bomb had been planted on the premises. In response, the Mumbai Police immediately activated security protocols. The Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) conducted a thorough search of the facility, which ultimately confirmed the threat was unfounded.

Swift Police Investigation Leads to Arrest

Following an investigation led by the BKC police, the caller was identified as Siddharth Bhansali, a 23-year-old resident of Parel. Bhansali had recently been denied a U.S. visa and, in a state of emotional distress, made the threatening call. He was arrested and later released with a notice under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges for criminal intimidation and causing public alarm.

Police Urge Public Responsibility

The Mumbai Police emphasized that all threats are treated with the highest level of seriousness and that such actions, even when driven by personal grievances, have significant legal and security consequences. They urged citizens not to let frustration lead to unlawful behavior, especially when it could disrupt public institutions or diplomatic missions.

Broader Concerns Amid Rising Hoax Threats

This incident follows a string of hoax bomb threats sent to educational institutions and public facilities in recent months, adding strain to law enforcement and public safety services. Authorities continue to investigate whether there is any wider pattern or influence behind such incidents.