NIA Launches Investigation into Flydubai Flight Hijacking Attempt
The NIA is investigating a hijacking attempt on a Flydubai flight, focusing on potential terrorism links and radicalization.
New Delhi, October 10 (Daily Kiran) : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has initiated a probe into a reported hijacking attempt involving a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv. The incident, which allegedly involved an attack on the Indian captain, has raised serious concerns about aviation security and potential terrorist motives.
According to NIA sources, the agency is treating this case not only as an aviation-related crime but also as a potential terrorist conspiracy linked to radical networks. An FIR has been registered, incorporating provisions from the Anti-Hijacking Act, 2016, specifically Section 3, which addresses attempts to seize control of an aircraft through force or intimidation. Additionally, sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, have been invoked to investigate the alleged conspiracy and possible terrorist intentions.
The FIR includes sections 16, 18, and 20 of the UAPA, which will facilitate inquiries into potential “lone wolf” attacks, conspiracies, radicalization, and any connections the accused may have with terrorist organizations or networks.
UAE Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi revealed that the co-pilot, 29-year-old Omani national Hamam Al Hamami, allegedly attempted to take control of the aircraft with plans to crash it into Ben Gurion Airport in Israel. Reports indicate that this attempt was made on September 30, and investigations suggest that he had previously flown to Tel Aviv twice to gather information about the route and airport.
At the time of the incident, the aircraft was under the command of Indian captain Smita Machhar. Allegedly, the co-pilot attacked the captain in the cockpit using a crash axe in an attempt to seize control. However, the captain managed to fend off the attack, with the assistance of the reserve pilot, cabin crew, and several passengers, successfully thwarting the hijacking attempt.
Following the captain’s injury, the reserve pilot took over and safely landed the aircraft at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia, averting a potential disaster.
