A casual remark lands air passenger in Kochi police custody

Airport security responds swiftly to passenger's bomb comment, leading to thorough inspection and flight delay before Independence Day.

A Mumbai-bound passenger at the Kochi international airport was taken into police custody on Sunday (August 11, 2024) after he casually asked a security officer “Is there a bomb in my bag” in the middle of the routine X-ray check of his baggage.

Manoj Kumar, 42, was scheduled to fly to Mumbai by Air India flight AI 682, when he made what security personnel said was an “alarming comment to a CISF officer at the X-ray Baggage Inspection System”. The incident occurred around 6.40 a. m.

The passenger’s question triggered security concerns, prompting the airport security team on site to take swift action. The passenger’s cabin and checked-in baggage were thoroughly inspected by the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad. After completing the checks, which showed no threat, Mr. Kumar was handed over to the local police for further investigation.

The Bomb Threat Assessment Committee convened at 7:25 a. m. to assess the situation. The committee classified the threat as “non-specific,” meaning it was not credible but still required a full security response. The BTAC concluded its proceedings at 8 a. m. and the flight was cleared to take off at scheduled 8 a. m.

The incident comes close on the heels of the airport authority here cautioning passengers to arrive a little earlier than usual to clear security checks in view of more tightened security measures ahead of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15 at all airports in the country.