Colombo/New Delhi, May 3 (UNI) A Sri Lankan Airlines flight arriving from Chennai was subjected to a special search operation at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake today following intelligence information received from India regarding the possible arrival of six suspects, allegedly linked to the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir.
According to police, the information had alleged that the suspects may have arrived in Sri Lanka onboard a flight from Chennai (UL 122) which landed at BIA at around 11.59 a.m. on Saturday.
The intelligence information prompting the search operation was provided by Indian authorities, Police said.
The search operation was jointly carried out by the Sri Lanka Police, the Sri Lanka Air Force, and airport security personnel.
However, airport authorities said that the aircraft was thoroughly searched and that there are no reports of any suspicious persons arriving in the country on the flight in question.
In a statement, Sri Lankan Airlines said Flight UL 122, operated by aircraft 4R-ALS, landed in Colombo at 11:59 a.m. and underwent a comprehensive inspection coordinated with local authorities.
The alert was issued by the Chennai Area Control Centre concerning a suspect believed to be on board.
The airline confirmed that the aircraft was cleared following the inspection, but noted that the subsequent flight, UL 308 to Singapore, has been delayed due to the security procedures.
“Sri Lankan Airlines prioritizes the safety and security of all passengers and crew and remains committed to maintaining the highest safety standards,” the statement added.
UNI RN