🚨 RDX Tanker Hoax: How a Fake Call Claimed a Pakistani Link & Rattled Mumbai Police

The Threat That Shocked Mumbai.

On July 23, 2023, Mumbai Police received a chilling call:

“A white tanker filled with RDX, driven by two Pakistanis, is en route to Goa.”

The caller even described its license plate. Within minutes, police alert systems from Mumbai to Goa lit up.

Tracking the Tanker: What Police Found.

Police traced the vehicle near Ratnagiri. It was carrying nothing dangerous—just chemicals used for plastic production. There were no explosives. No Pakistanis.

The Caller: Revenge or Terror?

Investigators located the hoax caller in Kanjurmarg, Mumbai. He had a prior criminal record and admitted he was angry over a scratch on his scooter caused by the tanker earlier. The “threat” was pure revenge, not terror.

Police Response & Coordination

Despite it being a hoax, the response was sharp and immediate:

• Mumbai Police, Maharashtra ATS, and Goa Police worked together
• Border checks and highway surveillance were ramped up
• The tanker was safely stopped and examined

Why the ‘Pakistani Link’ Triggered Panic

Given India’s terror history—from 1993 blasts to 26/11—any mention of RDX and Pakistani nationals forces a zero-delay response. The call followed a pattern seen in earlier fake alerts that exploited these fears.

Legal Action & Fallout.

The man was charged under:

• IPC 182: False information to a public servant
• IPC 505(1)(b): Intent to cause fear/public panic
  If convicted, he faces jail and heavy fines.