Varanasi: Panic broke out at Varanasi airport on Sunday morning after a gunshot was fired during the security screening of a passenger, leaving two airport employees injured.
According to airport authorities, the incident occurred at around 9.30 am when a round was accidentally fired from a passenger’s pistol during the weapon-checking process.
The passenger, identified as Kamlesh Rai, a resident of Jiyanpur in Azamgarh, was travelling to Mumbai with his wife on Air India Express flight IX-1810. Authorities said he had declared the firearm before travelling and was carrying a pistol and magazine.
Two airport employees injured
Airport Director Puneet Gupta said one round was fired while the weapon was being inspected.
The bullet struck two airport employees. Suman, 32, sustained a gunshot injury to her thigh, while Rohit Raj was injured in the hand. Both were immediately taken to a trauma centre and were reported to be out of danger.
The sound of the gunshot caused panic inside the terminal, with passengers seen moving away from the area. CISF personnel and airport officials immediately reached the spot.
Investigation underway
Police, airport security and intelligence teams have launched an investigation into the incident. The passenger is being questioned to establish the circumstances under which the firearm discharged and whether the firing was accidental or deliberate.
The incident has raised additional security concerns as Varanasi airport had been placed under high alert from August 11 to 20 in view of Independence Day.
Senior police officials, including the ADCP Gomti Zone, along with intelligence personnel, have also reached the airport as part of the investigation.
