Passenger arrested at NAIA over alleged bomb joke

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A 50-year-old male passenger bound for Hong Kong was arrested after allegedly making a bomb joke at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1, airport police said Thursday.

In a statement, the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (AVSEGROUP) said the incident occurred at the airport's departure area Tuesday while an airline passenger service agent was explaining restrictions on dangerous goods and electronic devices.

The passenger allegedly told the airline personnel, "Bomba, may bomba 'yan (It has a bomb)."

AVSEGROUP personnel investigated the matter and coordinated with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team.

After the inspection of the passenger's baggage and the surrounding area, authorities declared these clear of explosives and incendiary materials.

The passenger was arrested and brought to the NAIA Police Station 1 for disposition.

A criminal complaint is being prepared against him for alleged violation of the Anti-Bomb Joke Law in relation to Article 287 of the Revised Penal Code or Unjust Vexation.

AVSEGROUP director Police Brigadier Dionisio Bartolome Jr. stressed that bomb jokes are never taken lightly as these can cause unnecessary alarm and disrupt airport operations. — VDV, GMA News