Mysuru: Hoax bomb threats targeting courts and government offices have emerged as a growing concern in Karnataka, with police data indicating a steady rise in such incidents in recent years. In the first two months of 2026 alone, authorities recorded 39 hoax bomb threats across the state, highlighting the continuing challenge faced by law enforcement agencies in tracing the culprits.
According to official data presented in the state legislature, a total of 468 hoax bomb threat cases have been registered in Karnataka since 2020. However, police have been able to identify and trace the accused in only a small number of these cases.
Data shared in legislative council
The statistics were provided by Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara in response to a question raised by Madhu G Madegowda in the legislative council.
The minister said that hoax bomb threats, usually made through anonymous phone calls or emails, have become a recurring issue affecting public institutions and government establishments.
Such threats often trigger large-scale security responses, including evacuation of buildings, deployment of bomb disposal squads, and thorough searches of premises.
Bengaluru reports highest number of cases
Among the cities in the state, Bengaluru recorded the highest number of hoax bomb threats this year.
Police data shows that 19 incidents were reported within the Bengaluru city police limits during the first two months of 2026.
Other cities have also witnessed similar threats, though on a smaller scale. Both Mysuru and Mangaluru recorded three cases each during the same period.
Authorities say such incidents not only disrupt normal operations but also divert critical police resources that could otherwise be used for addressing genuine security threats.
2025 recorded highest number of threats
According to the figures presented in the legislature, 2025 recorded the highest number of hoax bomb threat cases in recent years.
During that year alone, police registered 159 such incidents across Karnataka, marking a significant increase compared to previous years.
Officials say the surge in threats reflects the growing misuse of communication technologies, including anonymous emails and internet-based calling services.
These tools make it difficult for investigators to quickly trace the origin of threats, especially when perpetrators use virtual private networks (VPNs) or fake identities.
Investigation challenges for police
Law enforcement agencies say identifying the individuals responsible for hoax threats remains a major challenge.
Many threats are issued from temporary email accounts or prepaid mobile numbers, making it difficult to track the sender.
Even when digital trails exist, the process of tracing them often requires technical analysis and coordination with multiple service providers, which can delay investigations.
Police officials also point out that hoax bomb threats create unnecessary panic among the public and place pressure on emergency services.
Each threat must be treated as genuine until verified otherwise, leading to large-scale deployment of police personnel and bomb disposal units.
Legal consequences of hoax threats
Authorities have repeatedly warned that issuing hoax bomb threats is a serious criminal offence.
Individuals found guilty can face charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code related to public mischief, criminal intimidation, and spreading false information.
Police have urged citizens to act responsibly and avoid circulating rumours or making prank calls that could cause panic or disrupt public services.
Need for stronger monitoring
Security experts say addressing the issue requires stronger monitoring of digital communication channels and improved coordination between cybercrime units and local police stations.
They also stress the importance of public awareness about the legal consequences and potential risks associated with hoax threats.
With the number of incidents continuing to rise, authorities in Karnataka are expected to review security measures and investigative strategies to better detect and prevent such cases in the future.