Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru, Jan 20: Police commissioner Dr P S Harsha as well as Mangaluru International Airport director Dr V V Rao issued separate statements, detailing action undertaken after an explosive was found in the airport premises.

In his statement, Dr P S Harsha said that the bag containing possible explosive substances was found by a CISF official at the entry point of the airport. The bag was handled as per the security protocol.

“Mangaluru police control room was informed about the suspicious bag and a bomb squad was also pressed into service. The area was cordoned and civilian movement was barred. The bomb squad undertook necessary steps to safely dispose the bomb,” he said.

Dr P S Harsha (left) and Dr V V Rao

He also added that three teams have been formed to trace the culprit. “We were able to gather preliminary evidence. A middle aged person who was dressed in formal attire and wearing a cap is the alleged suspect. A picture of the suspect has been released. We urge the public to share information about the suspect. Even if the suspect is spotted in public transport, we request people to contact the police control room," said Dr P S Harsha.

Airport director V V Rao said, “The terminal manager received a call saying that the Indigo flight may contain an explosive. As per protocol all passengers were asked to de-board the flight. Bomb detection and disposal squad have undertaken the measures to check the flight which is currently stationed at an isolation base. The flight had to take off to Bengaluru at 3:15 pm.