The bomb hoax and rumour of terrorists' presence in the district courts F-8 of Islamabad caused panic in the vicinity. The area has been declared "clear" after thorough search by bomb disposal squad and people were again allowed to enter the area. Someone telephoned the officials of the Excise Department, located in the courts area, that a bomb was planted in this area.
The news spread like a wild fire and people rushed out of the offices in panic. There was another rumour that an armed terrorist is hiding in the area, who may resort to firing. According to police sources, emergency measures were taken after bomb hoax in the ETO office's parking area and Bakhsikhana of the district courts in Sector F-8. Some eyewitnesses reported that gunshots were also heard in the area. They also criticised the police for ineffective security measures in the area, saying that this would cause huge life and material loss. Bomb disposal squad and Elite Force cleared the area after thorough search.