Terrorists may try to sneak in IED in printer ink, airports alerted

After perfumes, intelligence agencies have sounded an alert at airports that terrorists may try to sneak in Improvised Explosives Device (IED) concealed in computer printer ink or toner cartridges.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has issued an alert that besides these IEDs, the airports also have a threat from hijacked aircraft and remote-controlled Microlite aircrafts, which are light recreational aircraft restricted in and around airports. Two years ago, Indian intelligence agencies had woken up to the threat posed by 'perfume bombs' after they were found to be in use in Pakistan. The fresh alert comes in the wake of the Republic Day celebrations.

"There is heightened security cover at airports across the country and Central Industrial Security Force personnel have been asked to be on maximum alert," said a senior official. The vulnerable areas at the airports like ladder points and entry gates need extra vigil, the alert issued by the security regulator said. "The alert also mentions threat from surgically implanted explosives," said the official.

The CISF is responsible for security at 59 airports. Travel agents have been asked to keep a record of details of all passengers. "Alerts issued by the aviation security regulator this time specifically talks about toner cartridges. We had been asking passengers not to carry any kind of liquid substance, especially perfumes and deodorants, but after this alert we are also looking for such objects," said another official.

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