LAHORE (HRNW) – A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) officer has been suspended after allegedly attempting to help a passenger remove dozens of liquor bottles from Allama Iqbal International Airport under the guise of protocol services.
According to details, a passenger arriving on Etihad Airways flight EY-284 from Abu Dhabi allegedly brought around 65 bottles of expensive liquor with him two days ago.
Officials said that PIA Passenger Service Officer Safdar Gondal, accompanied by another individual, attempted to facilitate the passenger’s exit from the airport under protocol arrangements. However, customs officials stopped the luggage during clearance and confiscated the liquor bottles.
Following the customs action, the passenger reportedly fled the scene, while Safdar Gondal and his companion also left the airport premises.
Customs authorities later informed the PIA station manager about the incident, after which departmental officers arrived at the airport and initiated formal action. The station manager also recorded a statement regarding the matter.
According to reports, the Airport Security Force (ASF) has recommended cancellation of the involved individuals’ airport entry passes, their removal from airport duty, and further departmental proceedings.
PIA spokesperson Abdullah Khan confirmed that the concerned officer has been suspended and legal action has been initiated. He stated that strict action will be taken if any involvement is proven.
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