Bengaluru: A 52-year-old businessman from the city was arrested by Airport police at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) for allegedly claiming that he was carrying bombs in his luggage, triggering alarm and disruption during early morning flight operations. The incident occurred amid heightened security arrangements ahead of Republic Day, officials said.

The arrested individual has been identified as Abu Aqeel Azhar Chad, a resident of Wilson Garden and a cloth merchant by profession. He was travelling along with an associate on an IndiGo flight bound for Ahmedabad when the incident took place on January 28.

Incident at the aerobridge gate

According to the police, the incident occurred at around 6.12 am when the two passengers were preparing to board IndiGo flight 6E-586 at Aerobridge Gate 30. During routine security checks, Chad allegedly told security personnel that he had “two small bombs” inside his bag.

The statement immediately raised suspicion and concern among security staff, prompting them to detain him on the spot. Given the sensitive nature of airport security and the potential threat perception, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel intervened and informed the Airport police.

An FIR registered in the case states that the accused’s claim caused panic and created a threatening atmosphere for other passengers waiting to board the flight.

Police action and charges

Following his detention, Chad was handed over to the Airport police for further questioning. After a preliminary inquiry, police registered a case against him under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

He has been booked under Section 125, which pertains to acts endangering the life or personal safety of others, and Section 353(1)(b), which deals with statements conducive to public mischief.

Police officials said that no explosives or suspicious materials were found in his luggage after a thorough security check, confirming that the claim was a hoax.

Warning ignored, says police

During questioning, police found that the accused was allegedly upset over the enhanced security checks being carried out at the airport due to Republic Day-related security measures. Sources said Chad appeared irked by the delays and scrutiny during the boarding process.

According to police, CISF officials had clearly warned him not to make such statements and explained the seriousness of claiming possession of explosives in a high-security zone such as an airport. Despite this, he allegedly repeated the claim, thereby creating unnecessary panic and nuisance.

“Even after being cautioned, he continued to say he had bombs in his bag, which forced security personnel to act immediately to ensure passenger safety,” a police source said.

Impact on passengers and operations

Although officials did not confirm major delays, the incident caused brief disruption at the boarding gate as security personnel followed standard operating procedures to assess and neutralise any potential threat. Passengers in the vicinity were reportedly anxious until authorities confirmed that the claim was false.

Airport authorities reiterated that even casual or joking references to bombs, weapons or threats are treated as serious offences under aviation security norms.

“Any statement that suggests a threat to aviation security is taken seriously. There is zero tolerance for such behaviour,” an official said, adding that such acts divert security resources and inconvenience other passengers.

Legal consequences of hoax threats

Police officials emphasised that making false claims about bombs or threats in public places, especially airports, is a serious offence and can lead to stringent legal action. Such acts not only cause panic but also pose risks by diverting attention from genuine security concerns.

Legal experts note that under Indian law, hoax threats in sensitive areas can attract severe punishment, including imprisonment and fines, depending on the gravity of the situation and the impact caused.

In recent years, authorities have repeatedly urged passengers to cooperate with security personnel and refrain from making irresponsible statements that could jeopardise public safety.

Ongoing investigation

Police said further investigation is underway to ascertain whether the accused had any prior history of similar behaviour or whether any other factors contributed to the incident. His associate, who was travelling with him, is also being questioned to determine his role, if any, in the matter.

The accused is expected to be produced before a court, where further legal proceedings will take place.

Conclusion

The arrest of the Bengaluru businessman serves as a reminder of the strict security environment at airports and the serious consequences of making hoax threats. Authorities have once again cautioned passengers to remain patient during security checks and to understand that such measures are in place to ensure the safety of everyone. Even a single irresponsible statement, officials said, can lead to legal trouble and unnecessary panic in high-security zones like airports.