SriLankan Airlines flight from Chennai searched in Colombo over India’s terror suspect alert

Chennai-Colombo SriLankan flight searched for Indian suspect linked to April 22 Pahalgam terror attack
Aircraft cleared after full security check, but next flight to Singapore delayed due to inspection
India imposed full import ban on Pakistan and downgraded ties after 26 deaths in Pahalgam attack

A SriLankan Airlines flight arriving from Chennai to Colombo was subjected to an intensive security inspection following a tip-off regarding a terror suspect wanted in India. The suspect is believed to have possible links to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people, including several tourists.

According to the airline, Flight UL 122, operated by aircraft 4R-ALS, landed at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport at 11:59 am local time on May 3. Upon arrival, Sri Lankan security agencies conducted a detailed inspection of the aircraft in response to an alert issued by the Chennai Area Control Centre.

Although there was no confirmation about the presence of the suspect, the search was linked to the ongoing investigation into the Pahalgam attack. Intelligence agencies in both countries remain on high alert following the deadly incident, with Indian authorities intensifying efforts to locate individuals believed to be involved or attempting to flee across borders.

Following the search, SriLankan Airlines confirmed that the aircraft was cleared for further operations. However, the mandatory security protocol led to delays in its next scheduled flight, UL 308 to Singapore. The airline acknowledged the inconvenience caused but said it was necessary for safety and cooperation with authorities.

The broader context of this alert ties into escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. In response to the April 22 attack, India downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan, suspended the Indus Water Treaty, expelled Pakistani military attaches, and imposed a full ban on imports from Pakistan citing national security.

Sketches of the suspects were released soon after the Pahalgam attack, with officials suggesting possible cross-border involvement. Intelligence inputs have warned that some suspects might attempt to flee using international routes, prompting heightened scrutiny at airports across South Asia.

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