Search Operation At Colombo Airport After Indian Alert On Suspected Pahalgam Terrorists

A SriLankan Airlines flight from Chennai was subjected to an intensive security check at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Colombo on Saturday, following a warning from Indian intelligence agencies regarding potential suspects linked to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.

According to a Sri Lankan Police spokesperson, authorities were alerted by Indian agencies about six suspected terrorists who were believed to be on board a flight from Chennai. In response, Sri Lankan officials conducted a detailed search operation upon the aircraft's arrival.

According to a News18 report In an official statement, SriLankan Airlines confirmed that Flight UL122, operated by aircraft 4R-ALS, landed in Colombo from Chennai at 11:59 a.m. on May 3 and was immediately subjected to a full-scale security inspection. The airline stated that the operation was carried out in coordination with local security authorities following an alert from the Chennai Area Control Centre regarding a wanted suspect believed to be traveling on that flight.

The aircraft was thoroughly examined and later cleared for regular operations. However, due to the time taken for the mandatory search procedures, the airline's subsequent service-Flight UL308 to Singapore-was delayed.

"SriLankan Airlines places the utmost importance on the safety and security of its passengers and crew. We are committed to maintaining the highest safety standards in all our operations," the airline said in its statement.

Officials have not yet confirmed whether any suspects were detained or identified during the operation, but investigations are ongoing in coordination with Indian authorities.