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The Mumbai traffic police helpline has become a target for hoax threats, particularly those directed at high-profile individuals like actor Salman Khan. The most recent incident involved a message claiming to be from the brother of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, demanding Rs 5 crore from Khan or an apology at a temple to ensure his safety. While the police have classified this threat as a hoax, it highlights a growing trend of using the traffic helpline for malicious purposes.
This incident follows a similar threat directed at Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, indicating a pattern of targeting prominent figures. The Mumbai traffic helpline, originally intended for providing traffic updates and handling complaints, has seen a surge in threats, with four reported in the past month alone. Khan, in particular, has been the target of multiple threats, especially after a shooting incident outside his residence. Other victims include Zeeshan Siddique, the son of former MLA Baba Siddique, who was recently killed.
The Mumbai police control room operates two helpline numbers, 100 and 112, but threats have predominantly been sent to the traffic helpline number. This preference is attributed to the traffic helpline's availability on WhatsApp, unlike the main police helplines. A senior police officer explained that individuals feel less vulnerable sending WhatsApp messages from unregistered numbers, believing they will not be caught. However, the officer emphasized that FIRs are registered and perpetrators are identified and face legal action.
The Mumbai traffic police WhatsApp line's visibility and ease of access, especially among younger individuals who prefer messaging over calling, contribute to its misuse. The geo-tagging of Mumbai's main helplines, directing non-local calls to regional control rooms, further isolates the traffic helpline, making it a prime target for threats. While the police are taking action against perpetrators, the rise in such threats is partly attributed to public fascination with high-profile figures like Salman Khan. Mentally unstable individuals receive leniency, while serious cases prompt strict action to avoid resource wastage and unnecessary searches.
The Mumbai traffic police are working to combat the misuse of their helpline, but the challenge remains significant. The ease of access and anonymity offered by WhatsApp, combined with the public fascination with celebrity targets, create a complex environment for law enforcement. As the police investigate these threats and prosecute perpetrators, the question remains: will the Mumbai traffic helpline regain its intended purpose, or will it continue to be a platform for harassment and intimidation?
Source: Why Mumbai’s traffic helpline is targeted by hoax threats against celebrities like Salman Khan