Varanasi Airport: Licensed Pistol Fires, Injuring Two Security Staff

A routine airport security check took an unexpected turn at Varanasi airport on Sunday morning when a passenger’s licensed pistol accidentally discharged, injuring two screening personnel.

This incident, involving an Air India Express flight, highlights the critical importance of safety protocols for licensed weapons even when procedures are followed.

What Happened at Varanasi?

The accident occurred around 9:30 AM on Sunday as passenger Kamlesh Kedarnath Rai, bound for Mumbai, was undergoing security formalities.

Here’s a quick rundown of the key details:

The passenger, Kamlesh Kedarnath Rai, had declared his weapon as required.

The weapon was a 7.62 mm pistol, accompanied by 21 live cartridges.

The incident happened during handling and inspection in a designated screening area.

A round was accidentally discharged, and the projectile ricocheted.

Two screening personnel, Rohit Raj and Suman Kumari, sustained injuries.

Immediate Response and Investigation

Both injured personnel received immediate medical assistance and were transported to New Lakshmi Trauma Center in Varanasi for treatment.

Local police were quickly informed, and the passenger, Kamlesh Kedarnath Rai, has been detained for further investigation into the circumstances.

The civil aviation ministry confirmed that the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is actively examining the incident.

Their focus includes ensuring adherence to prescribed procedures for handling and carrying licensed weapons at Indian airports.

Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of this investigation, which could influence future security guidelines for travelers with declared firearms.

Despite the incident, airport operations continued without any disruption to other flights or passengers.