“Passenger Arrested at Cochin Airport After Asking Officer if There’s a Bomb in His Bag”

Cochin, August 11, 2024—A passenger at Cochin International Airport was arrested on Sunday morning after making an alarming comment during security screening. The individual, identified as Manoj Kumar, 42, was scheduled to fly on Air India flight AI 682 from Kochi to Mumbai.

While passing through the X-ray Baggage Inspection System (XBIS), Kumar reportedly asked a Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) officer if there was a bomb in his bag. The comment triggered an immediate response, prompting a thorough examination of both his cabin and checked baggage by the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS). No explosives were discovered.

Following the inspection, Kumar was removed from the flight and handed over to local police for further investigation. The flight proceeded on time as planned.

Authorities emphasize that any mention of bombs or similar threats at airports is treated with the highest level of seriousness. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) highlights that even casual or joking remarks about threats can lead to significant delays, fines, and legal consequences.

In a related incident earlier this year, a passenger en route from Kochi to London Gatwick was arrested for making a bomb threat, which was later determined to be a hoax. Shuhaib, 30, from Kondotty in Malappuram, made the threat during a phone call to Air India’s customer service, allegedly in frustration over a flight rescheduling request.

With Independence Day approaching, heightened security measures are in place at all airports, including Cochin. Travelers are advised to expect longer processing times and to arrive early to accommodate thorough security checks.