Kochi: A passenger, Manoj Kumar (42), who was scheduled to fly from Kochi (COK) to Mumbai (BOM) on Air India flight AI 682, was arrested this morning at Cochin International Airport for making an 'alarming comment' to a CISF officer at the X-ray Baggage Inspection System (XBIS) checkpoint.

A press release by Cochin International Airport states, "During the pre-embarkation security check, Mr. Kumar asked the CISF officer, "Is there any bomb in my bag?" This statement triggered immediate concern and prompted the airport security team to take swift action.

The passenger's cabin and checked baggage were thoroughly inspected by the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS). After completing the necessary checks, which revealed no threat, Mr. Kumar was handed over to the local police for further investigation." 

According to the reports, the flight departed on time.

Earlier this year, a 30-year-old passenger suspected of making the call was apprehended here by authorities when he and his family checked in to board  London-bound Air India flight. The accused Suhaib was booked for offences under IPC section 506 (criminal intimidation) and section 118(b) (knowingly spreads rumours or gives false alarm to mislead the police, fire brigade or any other essential service) and section 120(o) (causing nuisance and violation of public order) of the Kerala Police Act, according to the FIR.

 

(Agency inputs)