New Delhi, April 8, 2025: In a shocking incident that has embarrassed India’s image on the global stage, two employees at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport have been arrested for allegedly stealing $2,500 (over ₹2 lakh) from a US citizen traveling through the airport.
The incident took place in the early hours of Monday,
when an American tourist raised an alarm about missing cash from his cabin luggage after clearing the security check. The complaint triggered an immediate internal investigation by CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) and airport authorities.
How the Theft Happened
According to the FIR filed, the passenger — identified as John Miller, a US national traveling from Delhi to New York — had kept the cash in an envelope inside his backpack. Moreover After the security screening, he noticed that someone had not properly zipped the bag and had taken the envelope.
CCTV footage from the security screening area showed two ground-handling staff members — both outsourced employees — behaving suspiciously. Upon close inspection of the video, one of the employees was seen quickly slipping something into his pocket while handling the passenger’s bag.
Swift Action by Authorities
Airport police along with CISF personnel detained the two suspects, further more identified as Rakesh Kumar (32) and Sohail Khan (29).
During interrogation, one of them confessed to the theft and led authorities to a hidden spot in the staff room where $2,500 in cash was recovered, still sealed in a white envelope.
The authorities returned the stolen money to the passenger,
who praised the quick action by the Indian security agencies but also expressed concern over the safety of travelers’ belongings in international airports.
Official Statements
A senior Delhi Police officer stated:
“We take this matter very seriously. Both accused have been arrested under Section 379 (theft) of the IPC. Their airport access has been permanently revoked, and further investigation is ongoing.”
An official spokesperson for Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) added:
“The incident is deeply regrettable. We are cooperating fully with the authorities and reviewing all third-party staffing procedures to ensure such breaches do not occur again.”
Impact on India’s Global Image
This incident raises serious concerns regarding the security and integrity of airport staff,
especially in one of India’s busiest international hubs.
With Delhi airport handling lakhs of passengers daily, even a single such case can damage the country’s reputation in the global tourism and business community.
Airport authorities are now being urged to conduct background checks, regular training sessions, and surprise audits to prevent such internal security failures.
What the US Tourist Said
John Miller, the US national affected by the theft, told reporters:
“I’m grateful my money was recovered, but this was a disturbing experience. I hope the airport authorities take stricter action so that no other traveler faces this.”
Conclusion: A Wake-up Call for Airport Security
This incident serves as a stark reminder that internal vigilance is just as important as external security. While India has invested heavily in airport infrastructure and modernization,
this case shows that trustworthy personnel and accountability are essential to maintain global standards.
As of now, the court has placed both accused in judicial custody, and officials are awaiting further proceeding.