Authorities at Kotoka International Airport have handed over a passenger to the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) after their luggage nearly caused a fire outbreak at the airport on Sunday, September 22, 2024.
In a statement issued by the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), the incident occurred at the Terminal 3 Departure Hall around 3:27 p.m. when a passenger’s luggage was discovered emitting smoke in the baggage wrap area.
The GACL’s Aviation Security Department immediately responded by isolating the bag to prevent a potential fire. In line with the airport’s emergency procedures, passengers in the terminal were promptly evacuated to ensure their safety.
“The security team swiftly isolated the bag, and passengers in the terminal were evacuated as per the Ghana Airports Company Limited’s Emergency Operations procedures,” the statement said.
The GACL also took the opportunity to remind passengers that traveling with batteries is a violation of International Civil Aviation Regulations. The statement emphasized that any luggage containing prohibited items such as batteries will be confiscated, and the owner handed over to the appropriate authorities.
The airport authorities expressed gratitude to the passengers in the departure hall for their cooperation during the evacuation and reiterated the importance of following aviation safety guidelines.
The incident has raised awareness about the dangers of traveling with prohibited items and the critical role of airport security in ensuring passenger safety.
