Is there bomb in my bag? Air India passenger arrested after doing THIS...

New Delhi: A passenger named Manoj Kumar, 42, was arrested at Cochin International Airport after making an "alarming comment" during security screening on Sunday morning. Kumar was scheduled to fly from Kochi to Mumbai on Air India flight AI 682. While passing through the X-ray Baggage Inspection System (XBIS), he inquired with a CISF officer if there was a bomb in his bag.

Immediate response and investigation

Kumar’s comment prompted an immediate response from the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS), who conducted a thorough inspection of both his cabin and checked baggage. Fortunately, no explosive devices were discovered. Despite this, Kumar was removed from the flight and handed over to local police for further investigation. The flight proceeded to its destination on schedule, as confirmed by airport officials.

Seriousness of threats at airports

Airports take any mention of threats, especially terms like "bomb" or "hijack," with the highest level of seriousness. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, which sets flight security standards for both international and domestic airports in India, strictly advises against any threats, even if made in jest. Such comments can lead to significant delays for all passengers involved and potential fines. The law treats statements like "I have a bomb in my bag" as serious offences.

Similar incident

This incident follows a similar case earlier this year. In June, a passenger named Shuhaib, 30, from Kondotty in Malappuram, was arrested for making a false bomb threat on an Air India flight from Kochi to London Gatwick. Frustrated after his request to reschedule the flight due to his daughter's food poisoning was denied, Shuhaib made the bomb threat during a call to Air India's customer service in Mumbai. The threat was later confirmed to be a hoax.