Renowned music composer Ilaiyaraaja received a threatening email on Tuesday alleging that a bomb had been planted inside his recording studio, panic swept through Chennai's T. Nagar neighbourhood.
As per Indian Express, authorities immediately responded with security after receiving the message, which was also forwarded to the Deputy General of Police (DGP).
Teams from the local police and Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) reached the studio in a matter of minutes and carried out a comprehensive search.
The composer's employees and fans were relieved when authorities verified that the email was a hoax after a few tense hours.
According to police sources, the message was remarkably similar to other threatening emails that a number of prominent Chennai figures had recently received.
The sender reportedly used the same Hotmail account that had previously been linked to a series of bomb threat hoaxes targeting politicians and film celebrities.
The city’s cyber crime unit has now launched a full-scale investigation to trace the source of the emails. Officers are analysing the digital trail and working to determine whether the threats are part of a coordinated effort to spread panic.
The police have also extended their search to other key locations, including the residences of Naam Tamilar Katchi leader Seeman and Leader of Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami, both of whom received similar emails.
Also Read: 50 years of Ilaiyaraaja’s music: What the songs of Ilaiyaraaja capture, and why they remain relevant
Over the past few weeks, Tamil Nadu has been hit by a string of fabricated bomb threats, sparking public concern and straining security forces.
Actors Vijay, Nayanthara, and Trisha were among those targeted recently, with each incident later confirmed to be a false alarm. In Vijay’s case, police arrested a 37-year-old man named Shabik for making a fake bomb call earlier this year.
Authorities believe that these hoaxes may be the work of the same individual or group attempting to create unrest. A senior police officer stated that digital forensics teams are working around the clock to identify the sender.
Regarding Ilaiyaraaja, the music virtuoso has refrained from publicly commenting on the incident.
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