Mangaluru: Personnel of the CISF Airport Security Group (ASG) at Mangaluru International Airport traced and safely returned an unattended bag containing several valuable items to a passenger late on Friday night, demonstrating prompt response and adherence to security protocols.
Unattended bag spotted during routine patrol
According to airport security officials, an unattended black bag was noticed at around 11.50 pm on January 30 at the arrival pick-up point of Mangaluru International Airport. The bag was spotted by the Arrival Quick Reaction Team of the CISF ASG while they were carrying out routine patrol duties in the terminal area.
Given the sensitivity of airport security, CISF personnel immediately secured the bag and initiated standard operating procedures to rule out any potential threat. The area around the bag was monitored to ensure passenger safety while further checks were conducted.
Thorough security checks conducted
As part of the standard protocol, the unattended bag was first examined by the dog squad and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS). Officials said that both teams carried out detailed checks and reported no suspicious or hazardous findings.
Following this, the bag was screened using security equipment to ensure it did not pose any risk. After multiple layers of screening, CISF personnel confirmed that the bag was safe and posed no threat to airport operations or passenger safety.
Valuables found inside the bag
Upon opening the bag for inspection, CISF personnel found several valuable items inside. These included a laptop, two iPhones, ATM cards, identity cards, a passport, currency, electronic accessories, vehicle keys and other personal belongings.
Officials said the presence of high-value items highlighted the importance of swift action, as unattended baggage at airports can often lead to panic or security alerts if not handled promptly.
Passenger traced using CCTV and boarding details
After securing the bag, CISF personnel reviewed CCTV footage from the terminal area to trace the owner. The footage revealed that the passenger who had left the bag behind had already exited the airport premises.
Using information available from the boarding pass found inside the bag, CISF officials coordinated with airline authorities to identify and contact the passenger. The passenger was informed about the recovery of his belongings and asked to collect them from the airport after completing the necessary verification formalities.
Bag deposited in lost-and-found section
In the meantime, the bag was deposited at the Airport Terminal Manager’s office, with proper entry made in the lost-and-found register, as per established procedures. CISF officials said maintaining documentation is crucial to ensure transparency and accountability in such cases.
At around 1.35 am, the passenger arrived at the airport terminal to claim his bag. After verifying his identity and ownership of the belongings, CISF personnel handed over the bag along with all the items found inside.
Passenger thanks CISF personnel
The passenger expressed his appreciation for the timely and professional action of the CISF ASG Mangaluru personnel. He also shared a video message thanking the CISF team for their assistance and for ensuring the safety and recovery of his valuable belongings.
CISF reiterates commitment to security
CISF officials said the incident highlights the importance of constant vigilance and strict adherence to security protocols at airports. They also appealed to passengers to remain cautious and ensure that their belongings are not left unattended in terminal areas.
The successful recovery and return of the unattended bag once again underlined the CISF’s commitment to ensuring passenger safety and security at Mangaluru International Airport, anytime and anywhere.