Bengaluru: A 41-year-old man from Bengaluru, identified as Abhay Devadas Nayak, was detained in Glasgow after causing alarm onboard an easyJet flight from London Luton to Glasgow on July 27. According to officials, Nayak, who suffers from schizophrenia, created panic by making bomb threats, chanting religious slogans, and shouting hostile remarks against former US President Donald Trump.
The mid-air chaos unfolded when Nayak stood up, chanted “Allahu Akbar,” and yelled “Death to America, death to Trump,” causing fear among passengers. He was eventually restrained by the crew and fellow passengers. Videos of the incident quickly surfaced online, showing the confrontation. Nayak later claimed he acted out because Trump was in Scotland and he wanted to “send a message.”
Authorities confirmed Nayak’s identity through an ATM card found in his wallet. He reportedly told passengers that he was a refugee in the UK, lacked a passport, and held residency documents for Wales—claims that have not been verified.
His family in southern Bengaluru informed police that Nayak had been diagnosed with schizophrenia. He belongs to a business family with roots in Honnavar, and his siblings, who are medical professionals, live abroad. Public records show he co-founded Antrix Ventures in Bengaluru in 2010.
Upon landing at 8:20 AM in Glasgow, police arrested Nayak. He was presented before a court the following day but did not enter a plea. UK authorities have charged him under the Air Navigation Order for recklessly endangering the aircraft. However, officials in Karnataka indicated that deportation to India may be considered without pressing formal charges.