Mangaluru Airport News: CISF, Airport Staff Return Lost Purse Carrying USD 10,000 to Passenger
Mangaluru Airport News
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and staff at Mangaluru International Airport returned a lost purse containing USD 10,000, 500 UAE dirhams, a gold ring, an iPhone, and other valuable items to a passenger after a quick and coordinated effort. The incident highlighted the honesty and professionalism of the airport security personnel.
According to airport officials, the incident took place on July 26, when a landside security staff member, Vittal Hosamani, noticed an unattended black purse placed on a baggage trolley in the lower ground floor parking area at around 6:15 a.m. Realising that the bag had been left behind, he immediately informed the CISF personnel on duty.
Following standard airport security procedures, the CISF Quick Response Team (QRT) quickly secured the area and informed the Security Operations Control Centre (SOCC). Since any unattended baggage at an airport is treated as a potential security risk, officials called the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) to inspect the purse.
A trained sniffer dog and bomb disposal experts carefully examined the bag to ensure that it did not contain any explosives or dangerous materials. After confirming that the purse was safe, airport officials opened it in the presence of authorised personnel.
Inside the purse, officials found several valuable items, including USD 10,000, 500 UAE dirhams, a passport, an iPhone, a gold ring, bank cards, and the passenger’s boarding pass. The discovery of these valuable belongings made it important to identify the owner as quickly as possible.
Airport authorities reviewed CCTV footage to trace the passenger’s movements. The footage showed that the passenger had already left the airport premises. Using the details available on the boarding pass, officials contacted the airline and obtained the passenger’s contact information.
The passenger had arrived in Mangaluru from Dubai on Air India Express flight IX 814. After receiving a phone call from airport authorities, he returned to the airport to collect his belongings.
Before handing over the purse, officials carefully verified the passenger’s identity to ensure that the valuables were returned to the rightful owner. After completing all verification procedures, the purse and all its contents were safely returned.
The passenger expressed his gratitude to the CISF and Mangaluru International Airport staff through a video message. He thanked the security personnel for their honesty, prompt response, and professional handling of the situation.
Airport authorities said the incident demonstrates the effectiveness of security protocols followed at Indian airports. It also highlights the dedication of CISF personnel and airport staff, who not only ensure passenger safety but also help recover and return lost belongings.
The successful recovery and return of the valuable purse reflects the commitment of airport security teams to maintaining trust, safety, and excellent passenger service. Such incidents strengthen passengers’ confidence in airport authorities and showcase the importance of alert and responsible security personnel.
Ajeet Yadav is an aviation enthusiast covering airline news, airports, aircraft, and industry developments through well-researched and reliable reporting.
