Patna: In a startling incident at Patna airport, security personnel recovered seven live cartridges from the handbag of a software engineer and an empty cartridge from a student's bag during routine baggage screening on Saturday. The discoveries led to the registration of a case under the Arms Act against the engineer, while the student was let off without any formal charges.
Details of the Incident
The software engineer, identified as Santosh Tiwari, 32, was found to be carrying seven live cartridges in his handbag during the screening process. Following the recovery, a case was registered against him under the Arms Act. However, he was later released on a bail bond. On the other hand, 23-year-old Muskan Kumari, a student, was found with an empty cartridge in her bag. No First Information Report (FIR) was lodged against her.
Statements from Airport Authorities
Patna airport Station House Officer (SHO) Sunil Kumar Jaiswal provided insights into the matter. Regarding Santosh Tiwari, he said, “Santosh claimed to be unaware of the cartridges in his bag and suspected that someone might have kept them there without his knowledge.” As for Muskan Kumari, the SHO explained, “Muskan found the empty shell about three months ago, kept it, and forgot about it. The matter was not suitable to register a case.”
Legal Implications and Security Concerns
The recovery of live ammunition at an airport raises serious security concerns. The Arms Act, under which the engineer was booked, governs the possession and carrying of firearms and ammunition in India. Possession of live cartridges without a valid license is a punishable offense. The engineer's claim of ignorance will be investigated further, while the student's case was deemed unintentional and lacking malicious intent.
Airport security has been heightened following the incident, and passengers are reminded to check their baggage thoroughly to avoid carrying prohibited items. The Patna airport authorities have urged travelers to remain vigilant and cooperate with security personnel to ensure safety.
