Authorities at New Islamabad International Airport detained a Chinese national after he reportedly accessed a restricted departure zone using a counterfeit airline ticket, marking a significant security breach.
The incident occurred during active international flight operations, including flights to China. The individual, identified as Meng Chi, entered the international departure briefing and lounge area alongside his family by presenting what appeared to be a forged ticket from China Southern Airlines.
Family members were confirmed to be traveling on flight CZ 8070. Initial investigations indicate that the Airports Security Force (ASF) personnel permitted entry after verifying only the ticket, neglecting to properly inspect the passenger’s passport or other travel documents.
The breach remained unnoticed until Meng Chi attempted to exit the secure zone. At an exit checkpoint, heightened scrutiny uncovered irregularities in his entry credentials, leading to his detention. He was first taken to a control room before being handed over to airport police for further inquiry.
Officials described the event as a serious violation of security protocols at a critical facility and confirmed that an investigation is underway to identify procedural failures and assign responsibility.
Pakistan’s international airports maintain stringent, multi-layered security measures, especially in departure areas where access is restricted to passengers with verified travel documents. Authorities have stated that additional actions will follow once the investigation concludes.
