Hoax bomb call triggers panic in Khan Market

New Delhi: A phone call, claiming that a bomb was planted in the upscale Khan Market in South Delhi, triggered panic in the area on Friday, prompting a rush of bomb and dog squads to the spot.

A caller told the Delhi police on Friday morning that a bomb had been planted in the Khan Market area, one of the capital’s best-known shopping destinations.  

According to a police statement, his exact words were, “Khan Market mein bomb plant kar diya hai.”

Following the call, a disposal squad and a dog squad were dispatched to the spot. The police said in its statement that it was verifying facts, and taking “all required steps as per the standard drill to handle such calls.” It said that there wasno need to panic.

Till 9.15 am, the call had not been declared a hoax. A police officer from the Tughlaq Road police station said the call was received at 6.50 am.

“A male voice from the other end said a bomb has been planted in Khan Market and hung up immediately after,” the officer said. The officer added that they called back the number from which the call was received. However, it was found to be switched off. Efforts were made to trace the caller. Khan Market is located near a Metro station on the Violet Line and near the Lodhi Garden, an important heritage site. It is also in the New Delhi region, home to several top government officers.