At Warsaw’s Chopin Airport, a security operation unfolded when a South African passenger attempting to fly to Dubai encountered a grenade-like object in his possession, according to officials from the Polish border guards. The evacuation was prompted by the discovery, and airport authorities moved quickly to ensure passenger safety while the investigation began.
Border guards reported that the traveler was intercepted during a routine security check of his hand luggage. Earlier, four bullets were found in his baggage and brought to the attention of the security team conducting the screening at the terminal. This prompted a broader search of the passenger’s luggage to determine whether there were additional hazards or contraband.
During the subsequent search, authorities identified an item in the checked luggage that resembled a grenade. Pyrotechnic specialists were called in to assess and handle the object, and they proceeded to confiscate all items found as part of the precautionary measures being taken on site.
Following the discovery, airport officials initiated an evacuation of approximately 400 people to ensure safety and minimize risk during the ongoing evaluation of the suspicious device. The measure was taken in coordination with security and emergency response teams to maintain order and prevent potential harm while the case was being reviewed by investigators.
The individual involved was detained at the scene and is expected to be transported to the prosecutor’s office for formal proceedings related to the incident. Law enforcement and border protection authorities stated they would continue to work with prosecutors to determine the appropriate charges and further steps in the case.
On July 2, Volgograd airport authorities also issued a control notice following a separate mining threat, prompting additional security protocols and passenger screening in that facility. The security measures at different hubs underscore ongoing vigilance in air travel security across the region.
In related developments, reports indicated that former passengers of the Baghdad–Dubai flight were temporarily evacuated as part of standard safety procedures amid the broader security situation surrounding international air travel. At times like these, airport staff emphasize the importance of calm, orderly behavior from travelers to facilitate rapid containment and secure handling of any potential threats. When authorities encounter suspicious items, they reiterate, the primary goal remains protective action for the traveling public and the surrounding community.