Mumbai Police Unravel IC814 Hijacking Case: A Detailed Account

In December 1999, the Mumbai Police, led by Joint Commissioner D Sivanandhan, were alerted to the hijacking of IC814. The police quickly mobilized their elite Crime Branch teams to gather intelligence and track the hijackers. They intercepted phone calls that revealed crucial information, including the sound of a cattle shed and the azaan, which helped narrow down the location of the suspects. Surveillance was set up at the Shalimar Hotel, where a local man, Abdul Patel, was to collect ransom money. As the operation unfolded, officers discreetly followed Patel after he received the money. This led them to Jogeshwari, where he was found to be in contact with three Pakistani nationals who were also involved in the hijacking. The police's meticulous efforts paid off as they managed to apprehend the suspects, who were previously unknown to authorities. The hijackers had concealed their identities during the hijacking by wearing monkey caps. The interrogation of the arrested individuals revealed their roles in the hijacking and provided insights into their operations. Notably, Abdul Patel had obtained two passports through bribery, which highlighted the corruption within the system. The Mumbai Police's investigation was pivotal in uncovering the true identities of the hijackers, which had remained hidden until then. This case not only showcased the efficiency of the Mumbai Police but also brought to light the broader implications of terrorism and the need for vigilance in national security. The revelations made by the police were crucial for the Government of India and the international community to understand the threat posed by these individuals.