An Air India flight bound for London from Cochin International Airport was the target of a false bomb threat on Tuesday. However, after thorough checks, authorities confirmed it was a hoax, and a 29-year-old man suspected of making the threat has been detained.
The incident unfolded when a bomb threat call was received by Air India’s call center in Mumbai regarding flight AI 149, scheduled for departure to London Gatwick from Cochin. The Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) and Air India were immediately alerted, leading to the formation of a Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) as per standard protocols.
Upon assessment, the threat was deemed specific, prompting rigorous security measures. The Airport Security Group (ASG-CISF), airline security personnel, and inline baggage screening systems conducted extensive checks on the aircraft. Following BTAC’s recommendations, the flight was moved to an isolated parking area for further security procedures.
After comprehensive inspections, including the check-in process completed by 10:30 am, authorities cleared the aircraft for takeoff at 1.25 PM. The flight, originally scheduled for 11:50 AM, departed without further delays.
Efforts were swiftly made to identify the caller responsible for the threat, leading to the apprehension of Suhaib, a 29-year-old resident of Kondotty in Malappuram district. Suhaib, accompanied by his wife and daughter, was intercepted by ASG during check-in at Cochin Airport’s international departure terminal.
The prompt response and coordinated efforts of security agencies ensured the safety and smooth operation of the London-bound Air India flight, averting any potential danger posed by the hoax bomb threat. Investigations into the incident continue to ascertain further details and motives behind the false alarm.
Sources By Agencies
