ATS talks to schoolkids about terrorism, cyber crimes, drug menace

Considering the growing menace of cyber crimes, terrorism and drug menace in the city and state, officers from the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) interacted with schoolchildren and made them aware on how they can avoid becoming victims of cyber crimes, terrorism and drugs.

Officers from the Vikhroli unit of the ATS, headed by senior inspector Dinesh Joshi, between January 2 and 8, interacted with 2,700 students from 13 higher secondary schools and colleges in eastern suburbs.

"We explained to them what is terrorism, how terrorist organisations spread rumours to prove their point, how the economy of India is getting affected due to the fake currency notes in circulation in the country, how today's youngsters get addicted to vices, and how terrorist organisations supply drugs like MD to collegians to make our the youth weak," said an ATS officer.

He added that they were also made aware on how to use social media and mobile phone applications, what precautions to take while doing online transactions, how to steer clear of phone calls and emails on lotteries and why personal bank account details should not be shared.

"We also told them that rumours should not be spread through social media platforms, such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Hike and Instagram," the officer said.