Home Civil Aviation Accidental Discharge of Licensed Firearm at Varanasi Airport

Accidental Discharge of Licensed Firearm at Varanasi Airport

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In an unfortunate happening, on August 16, 2026 at approximately 9:30 a.m., a passenger, Kamlesh Kedarnath Rai, scheduled to travel from Varanasi to Mumbai on Air India Express flight IX 1810, declared a licensed firearm—a 7.62 mm pistol along with 21 live cartridges—at the airline check-in counter in accordance with the prescribed procedure.

The passenger was subsequently escorted to the designated screening area to complete mandatory security formalities. During the handling and inspection of the firearm, an accidental discharge occurred. The projectile ricocheted, injuring two screening personnel: Rohit Raj and Suman Kumari.

Both injured personnel immediately received medical assistance and were shifted to New Lakshmi Trauma Center, Varanasi, for treatment.

The local police were informed without delay, and the passenger has been detained for investigation and further legal action as per applicable laws.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has initiated an examination of the circumstances surrounding the incident, including whether the prescribed procedures governing the handling and carriage of licensed firearms at airports were fully followed. Appropriate action will be taken based on the inquiry’s findings.

The situation was promptly brought under control, and airport operations continue to function normally without any disruption.

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