Accidental Gunfire at Varanasi Airport Injures Two During Security Check

A firearm accidentally discharged during a security screening at Varanasi's Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, injuring a female staff member and another individual. The passenger, Kamlesh Rai, was preparing to board a flight to Mumbai when the incident occurred. Both injured parties were taken to a hospital for treatment. Police officials are investigating the situation and taking necessary legal actions. Read on for more details about this alarming event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 16, 2026, 13:00 IST

Incident at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport

Varanasi: A passenger's licensed firearm accidentally discharged during a security check at Varanasi airport on Sunday morning, resulting in injuries to a female staff member and another individual.

Both injured parties have been taken to a hospital for medical care.

The passenger, identified as Kamlesh Rai from Azamgarh district, was at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport with his wife, preparing to board Air India Express flight IX1810 to Mumbai, as reported by the Deputy Commissioner of Police for the Gomti Zone.

While his licensed pistol was being screened, it accidentally fired, according to police reports.

A female security officer sustained a leg injury, while another person nearby was struck in the thumb. Both victims were promptly transported to a private hospital for treatment.

Following the incident, senior police officials, including the Deputy Commissioner of Police and the Assistant Commissioner of Police, arrived at the scene.

Authorities are currently examining the area and collecting relevant information, with appropriate legal measures being initiated regarding the incident.