The IC814 hijacking case, which occurred on December 24, 1999, has gained renewed attention due to a new web series exploring the harrowing events. This blog delves into how the Mumbai Police, guided by former top officer D Sivanandhan, successfully cracked the case. The investigation revealed a web of international connections and local plots, demonstrating the prowess of Indian law enforcement.
**IC814 Hijacking: The Terror Attack that Gripped the Nation**
The hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC814 was a chilling and high-stakes crisis. Shortly after departure from Kathmandu, the flight was taken over by terrorists and diverted to multiple locations, including Amritsar, Lahore, and Dubai, before finally landing in Kandahar. The incident saw India on high alert as negotiations unfolded to secure the safe release of the 176 passengers and crew members.
**Mumbai Police’s Key Lead: Hemant Karkare’s Crucial Tip-Off**
A pivotal moment in solving the IC814 case came from an unexpected source: Hemant Karkare, a senior officer in Mumbai Police. Karkare’s crucial tip-off led investigators to a suspicious money exchange operation in a Mumbai hotel. This lead was instrumental in identifying key suspects and unraveling the terrorists’ network, marking a significant breakthrough in the case.
**Cracking the Case: The Role of a Suspicious Money Exchange**
The investigation into the money exchange revealed irregularities that were directly linked to the hijackers. Acting on Karkare’s tip, Mumbai Police discovered transactions that provided critical evidence. The arrests made at this location were key to advancing the investigation and piecing together the hijackers’ plans and connections.
**Unveiling the Plot: From International Calls to Targeting Matoshree**
Further investigation uncovered a broader network involving international links and local plots. The hijackers had made multiple calls to Pakistan, indicating external support for their operation. Additionally, a plot to target Matoshree, the residence of Shiv Sena leader Bal Thackeray, added a new dimension to the case, highlighting the terrorists’ extensive planning.
**D Sivanandhan’s Inside Account: The Investigation that Made History**
Former top officer D Sivanandhan provides an in-depth account of the meticulous investigation led by the Mumbai Police. His narrative reveals how the Crime Branch’s detailed work and strategic insights led to resolving one of the most complex cases in modern history. The successful resolution of the IC814 hijacking case stands as a testament to the skill and determination of the Mumbai Police.
The IC814 hijacking case underscores the capabilities of Mumbai Police in tackling complex terror threats. Through critical leads, including Hemant Karkare’s tip-off and the investigation into a dubious money exchange, the police were able to dismantle the hijackers’ network and reveal their plans. D Sivanandhan’s detailed account highlights the investigation’s success, offering valuable lessons in crisis management and law enforcement excellence.
