CISF seizes banned satellite phones from foreign flyers at Ahmedabad airport

Ahmedabad: CISF officials at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International (SVPI) Airport on Thursday detained two foreign passengers after prohibited satellite phones were found in their possession during security checks. The passengers were questioned about the devices and later handed over to the Airport Police Station for further investigation.

As per Indian regulations, carrying a satellite phone requires prior approval from the Ministry of Communications. Since the passengers lacked the necessary documents, the phones were seized. The duo, scheduled to travel on an Air India flight to the United States via Mumbai around 9:40 am, raised suspicion when CISF personnel detected the devices during baggage screening. Upon inspection, two satellite phones were recovered, prompting immediate questioning.

Police said the passengers, employees of a foreign company, claimed they were unaware of the legal restrictions in India. They had already transited through Nagpur and several other airports before reaching Ahmedabad. To resolve the matter, their employer informed the American Embassy, which has since contacted Indian authorities and is providing relevant documents.

The use, purchase, or import of satellite phones without clearance has been strictly prohibited in India since Operation Sindoor, a measure enforced by the central government to strengthen security protocols. DeshGujarat