THE GOAN NETWORK
VASCO
A wave of panic swept through the BITS Pilani campus in Sancoale on Friday morning after an anonymous bomb threat was received via email, triggering a massive security operation.
The email, sent around 11 AM, claimed that RDX had been planted in the campus auditorium, where a three-day programme with students from across India was underway.
Sources said that there were about 4,500 students in the campus due to the event and the auditorium had to be evacuated.
Upon receiving the threat, the BITS Pilani management promptly alerted the police, who then called in multiple agencies, including the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad, the fire brigade, and local police.
In response, the event was temporarily suspended, and the premises were thoroughly searched by security forces. The teams conducted extensive checks across the auditorium and other areas of the campus. Fortunately, no explosives were found, bringing relief to the anxious students and staff.
Authorities have launched an investigation to trace the origin of the hoax email. Meanwhile, students and staff have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
While this incident caused temporary panic, swift action by the authorities ensured the safety of all present, allowing normal operations at the institution to resume by late afternoon.
