KOCHI: An Air India flight from Cochin International Airport (CIAL) to London Gatwick Airport received a bomb threat on June 25. The incident prompted extensive security checks, according to a report by PTI citing an airport official.
Security Response and Clearance
The bomb threat call, received early on June 25, triggered immediate action. The Air India call center in Mumbai relayed the alert about flight AI 149 to the Cochin office and the airport at 1:22 am. In response, a Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) was promptly convened at CIAL.
Following established protocols, the Airport Security Group (ASG-CISF), along with airline security personnel, conducted thorough checks. The aircraft was moved to an isolated parking area for a detailed inspection. After meticulous screening by inline baggage systems and security personnel, no explosives were found. The threat was ultimately deemed non-specific, and the flight was cleared for departure. The check-in process was completed by 10:30 am, with the flight departing on schedule at 11:50 am.
Suspect Identified and Detained
Efforts to trace the source of the threat led to the identification of a 29-year-old man named Suhaib, a native of Kondotty in Malappuram district, Kerala. Suhaib, who was scheduled to travel on the same flight with his wife and daughter, was apprehended by the ASG at Cochin Airport's international departure terminal during check-in.
Official Statements
An official statement confirmed that no explosives were found on the aircraft, ensuring there was no danger to passengers or crew. The spokesperson also confirmed that Suhaib, the suspect behind the bomb threat call, is now in police custody and is being investigated.
This incident highlights the stringent security measures in place at Cochin International Airport and the prompt response by authorities to ensure passenger safety. The swift resolution allowed the flight to proceed to its destination without significant delay.
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