Youth detained after breaching security, entering apron area at Dhaka airport

A youth has been detained after breaching security and entering the apron area near the runway through the domestic terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka in the early hours of this morning (28 April).

The incident occurred at around 6:15am, airport sources confirmed, adding that the individual managed to reach the apron area close to the runway through the domestic terminal.

Executive Director of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Group Captain SM Ragib Samad, said, “The youth entered the airport and reached the apron area through a gate of the domestic terminal.”

“He was detained from there. He has now been sent to the magistrate court,” he added.

Ragib Samad also said, “Action will be taken against the on-duty security personnel whose negligence led to this incident.”

The detained individual has been identified as Ferdous, 22, from Meherpur district. Entry to the apron area is restricted and not permitted for anyone other than authorised personnel.

During preliminary questioning, he said he had come to the airport to receive his uncle. As the flight was delayed, he walked towards the runway area to watch aircraft without any obstruction.

The incident comes a day after security was tightened at eight airports, including Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, following an alert issued by Police Headquarters over potential attacks on key installations.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (Caab) said surveillance has been increased at airports in light of recent security risks. Additional security personnel have been deployed, particularly at key entry points, terminal areas and sensitive installations at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.