A major security alert was triggered at Varanasi's Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport on Sunday after security personnel discovered a firearm magazine loaded with live ammunition in a passenger's hand baggage. The incident caused a significant stir at the airport, leading to a detailed investigation by authorities.
Security Scare at the Checkpoint
The incident unfolded around 2:20 PM on Sunday when the passenger, identified as Bhuwaneshwar Nath Tripathi from Mirzapur district, was undergoing routine security screening. Personnel from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), responsible for airport security, scanned his handbag during the pre-embarkation process.
The X-ray scan revealed suspicious contents, prompting a physical check. Upon inspection, the CISF team recovered a pistol magazine containing six live cartridges of .32 bore. The immediate discovery led to the detention of Tripathi for preliminary questioning right at the security checkpoint.
Investigation Reveals Oversight
Following the initial detention, Tripathi was handed over to the Phulpur police for a formal investigation. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Pindra Prateek Kumar provided details of the case. During the probe, it was established that Tripathi possessed a valid license for the firearm.
Tripathi explained to the police that he had left the actual pistol at his home but had forgotten to remove the loaded magazine from his handbag before heading to the airport. He was scheduled to board a flight to Delhi from Varanasi.
Passenger Allowed to Go After Apology
The police verified his firearm license and other credentials, which were found to be in order. Given that he had a license for the weapon and the incident appeared to be a case of forgetfulness rather than malicious intent, the police decided on a course of action.
Tripathi was asked to submit a written apology for the lapse and provide a copy of his arms license for official records. After completing these formalities and facing the investigation process, the police allowed him to return home.
However, the entire episode, from detection to investigation and paperwork, resulted in a significant delay. Tripathi missed his scheduled flight to Delhi as a consequence of the security scare and the subsequent procedural requirements.
The incident underscores the critical importance of vigilance by airport security forces like the CISF and serves as a stark reminder for licensed firearm holders to exercise extreme caution when traveling by air.
