Daijiworld Media Network - Varanasi
Varanasi, Aug 16: Two AAICLAS (AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company Limited) screeners were injured after a passenger's licensed pistol accidentally discharged during security screening at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi on Sunday, officials said.
The incident occurred at around 9.30 am when a passenger from Azamgarh and his wife arrived at the airport to board Air India Express flight IX-1810 to Mumbai. The passenger had declared the firearm, which was being checked separately in the security hold area.
According to officials, the pistol suddenly went off while AAICLAS personnel were inspecting and unloading the weapon. The male screener suffered an injury to his hand, while the female staff member was injured above her knee.
Airport director Puneet Gupta said the passenger was scheduled to travel to Mumbai with his wife and had declared the weapon for carriage on the aircraft. During the inspection, a round was accidentally discharged, injuring two AAICLAS screeners.
Both injured employees were taken to New Laxmi Trauma Centre for treatment and were undergoing medical care. Their condition was reported to be out of danger.
Officials said the passenger had also declared his ammunition and was undergoing the required separate screening. During the inspection, security personnel found that the pistol was loaded with a single round. The passenger reportedly claimed that he was unaware that the weapon was loaded.
The incident occurred while the firearm was being unloaded, according to people familiar with the matter.
Local police have been informed and an investigation has been launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the accidental discharge.
AAICLAS screeners are responsible for examining passenger baggage and freight using X-ray machines, metal detectors and advanced security-screening technologies. When weapons or other unauthorised items are detected, the screeners alert airport authorities and security agencies for further action.
The personnel operate as part of the airport's security system and work to ensure compliance with civil aviation security regulations.