Passenger Arrested at Delhi Airport After Refusing Refreshments on Air India Flight

A recent incident on Air India flight AI 99 from Jeddah to Delhi led to the arrest of a passenger under suspicious circumstances. The passenger repeatedly declined offers from a flight attendant, raising concerns among the crew.

The situation unfolded when the flight attendant initially offered the passenger drinking water, which he refused. Despite further offers of various refreshments throughout the 5.5-hour flight, the passenger consistently declined. This unusual behavior prompted the flight attendant to notify the flight captain, who then informed security agencies through Air Traffic Control.

Upon the flight's arrival in Delhi, a Customs Preventive team was on standby. The passenger was closely observed and intercepted while attempting to pass through the Green Customs Clearance Channel. During questioning, he confessed to smuggling gold paste concealed in his rectum. He subsequently removed four egg-sized capsules containing the gold paste.

According to the Deputy Commissioner of Customs, approximately 1096.76 grams of gold were recovered from the capsules, valued at around INR 69,16,169. The passenger was arrested under various sections of the Customs Act.

Flight crews are trained to be vigilant of passengers who refuse food and drink on long flights, as such behavior can indicate attempts to smuggle contraband.

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