Lucknow was put on high alert Tuesday after the management of Lulu Mall received a chilling letter threatening a series of bomb explosions at prominent public locations across the city. The threat, which specifically mentioned the sprawling mall, the Vidhan Sabha, and major transport hubs, has prompted the Uttar Pradesh police to sound an alert and escalate security city-wide.
Here is a breakdown of everything we know about this developing story.
What Did the Threat Letter Say? A ₹10 Crore Ransom Demand
The security scare began when a staff member at Lucknow’s Lulu Mall, located in the Sushant Golf City area, discovered the threatening letter. The note warned of bomb blasts at the mall, the state’s Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha), and key railway and bus stations.
According to police sources, the letter was allegedly sent by a group identifying itself as the “Babloo Jatt Gang.” The motive stated was extortion, with the group demanding a ransom of ₹10 crore. The letter threatened to cause widespread destruction if the demand was not met.
Lucknow Police on High Alert: Security Beefed Up Across City
The Lucknow Police Commissionerate responded immediately to the grave threat. An FIR was registered at the Sushant Golf City police station, launching a multi-pronged investigation into the bomb threat.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (South Zone), Vineet Jaiswal, confirmed the development. “A case has been registered, and we are thoroughly investigating the matter,” he stated. “Security has been significantly ramped up at Lulu Mall and other vital installations mentioned in the letter.”
As a result of the police alert, elite security units, including the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS), and Dog Squads, have been deployed. They are conducting comprehensive anti-sabotage checks, with intensive patrolling and screening operations underway at railway stations, bus depots, government buildings, and crowded markets to prevent any potential incident.
Why Target Lulu Mall? A High-Profile Landmark
Lulu Mall, one of the largest shopping centres in India, has been a major landmark in Lucknow since its inauguration. Attracting thousands of visitors daily, its high-profile status makes it a symbolic target, and authorities are treating the threat with the utmost seriousness.
The investigation is currently focused on tracing the origin of the letter. Cyber and forensic teams are working to identify the individuals behind the “Babloo Jatt Gang,” a name not previously associated with major criminal activity. While authorities are considering the possibility of a malicious hoax, all necessary security precautions are being taken.
Public Urged to Remain Vigilant
Police have urged the public to remain calm and vigilant. Citizens are advised not to spread unverified rumours and to immediately report any suspicious persons, objects, or activities to the authorities. As the investigation into the Lucknow Lulu Mall bomb threat continues, the city’s security apparatus remains on high guard.
