A false bomb threat sent shoppers scrambling at Portones Shopping on Sunday afternoon. The mall’s staff quickly sprang into action, activating their emergency protocol and alerting authorities.
Customers and employees were evacuated, and firefighters inspected the premises. They found no explosive device and gave the all-clear around 4:30 pm.
Earlier that day, a similar threat was made against the Mercado Agrícola. Firefighters searched the area and didn’t find any explosive. The building was closed to the public for about an hour.
Investigations ongoing
The police are looking into over 20 calls and 5 emails that targeted more than 12 public and private institutions with bomb threats. Ana Sosa, the head of Police Intelligence, says some people are still unidentified, while others are being questioned.
A security guard at Montevideo Shopping was sentenced to 6 months’ probation for making fake threats against the mall and two other institutions. A 28-year-old woman who worked at the mall was also charged with making threats and will serve 45 days of house arrest while the investigation continues.
The Interior Minister, Carlos Negro, says these are just the first results, and the investigation is ongoing. He’s confident that all those involved will be caught and face justice.
The police are still investigating a threat made against the University of the Republic. The email claimed someone armed would enter a faculty building and commit a massacre.
