On 2 July, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) intercepted and authenticated a call from “one of the top most terrorists in Pakistan”, discussing a plan to blow up road and rail bridges which connect Mumbai to mainland India. The NIA did not identify the terrorist, but confirmed that he was on India’s Most Wanted list and that the terrorist may be well on their way to Mumbai already.
The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has been apprised of the threat; Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane have been put on high alert.
The ATS has narrowed it down to three bridges at Thane, Vashi and Bhayandar. On Sunday and Monday, a double-check of security arrangements at these bridges was done. The police commissioners of the three cities have been asked to further increase security.
We have identified three bridges – Bhayandar bridge that connects the city to Virar and beyond, the Thane bridge, and the Vashi bridge. All three bridges are built across creeks and provide both road and rail connectivity. The island city will be cut off if these are destroyed.Senior ATS officer speaking to Mid-Day
The likely time of attack could be as early as this week, ATS officials confirmed. An urgent meeting was called between all units of the ATS on Sunday, wherein the leaves of all members across ATS units in Mumbai have been cancelled until further notice.
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