PM Modi Mumbai security scare clarified: 3 arrested for alleged armed entry at BKC Mall
PTC Web Desk: What was initially reported as a possible security scare ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Mumbai has turned out to be a separate incident at a shopping mall in Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC).
The Mumbai Police have arrested three men for allegedly trying to force their way into Jio World Plaza while one of them was carrying a firearm.
The police later clarified that the incident took place on Monday, a day before PM Modi's scheduled programme in BKC, and had no connection with the prime minister's visit.
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Earlier on Tuesday, reports emerged that a 24-year-old man claiming to be a Prime Minister's Office (PMO) official and his armed bodyguard had been detained in BKC. The development raised concerns because PM Modi was scheduled to attend an event in the area later that evening.
However, the police subsequently clarified the circumstances and said the incident had taken place at Jio World Plaza on Monday, rather than at the venue of the prime minister's programme.
Three men allegedly forced their way into mall
According to the police, the three suspects arrived at the upscale shopping mall and tried to enter despite being stopped by security personnel. The men allegedly showed the guards a suspicious government identity card and argued with them before forcing their way inside. One of the three was carrying a firearm, the police said.
Following a complaint from mall authorities, BKC Police registered a case under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to impersonating a public servant and unlawful entry while armed with a deadly weapon. The police later traced and arrested all three suspects.
Weapon was licensed, police say
A senior police officer said the incident was an isolated breach and confirmed that the firearm involved was licensed.
The police also made it clear that there was no link between the incident and PM Modi's scheduled visit to Mumbai.
The clarification came after the initial reports had raised questions over the security arrangements surrounding the prime minister's programme.
The Mumbai Crime Branch is conducting a separate investigation into the case. Officials are checking whether the government identity card shown by the suspects was genuine and are also trying to establish why the men attempted to enter the mall.
- With inputs from agencies
