Karnataka: CISF, Mangaluru Airport Security Team Trace Passenger, Return Pouch With Valuables
The information was also conveyed to the Security Operations Control Centre (SOCC), and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) examined the pouch: Reports
MANGALURU: Alertness by the CISF and the airport security team at Mangaluru International Airport led to the recovery and safe return of an unattended pouch comprising valuables including foreign currencies, gold ring, and bank cards to a passenger who had arrived from Dubai on Sunday morning.
Vittal Hosamani, a member of the airport's landside security team noticed a small black pouch lying on a baggage trolley in the lower ground floor parking area at around 6.15 am. As it was unattended, he immediately alerted the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), following which the Quick Response Team (QRT) rushed to the spot.
The information was also conveyed to the Security Operations Control Centre (SOCC), and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) examined the pouch. The team concluded that the pouch did not have any explosives. The pouch was then opened in accordance with security protocol.
The pouch had a passport in the name of Nishal Shahik, a gold ring, 500 UAE Dirhams, USD 10,000 in cash, an iPhone, a boarding pass and bank cards.
The SOCC team which examined the CCTV footage found that the passenger had left the airport premises.
Taking up the details available from the boarding pass, CISF personnel found the passenger's contact number through the airline and informed him that his valuables had been found.
The pouch belonged to Nishal Shahik, who had arrived in Mangaluru from Dubai on Air India Express flight IX 814, which landed at 5.05 am.
The passenger later returned to the airport, where the pouch was handed over to him after due verification and completion of the prescribed formalities.
In a video message the passenger lauded the prompt action and professionalism of the CISF personnel and airport staff.
