[Sportschosun Jang Jong-ho] A major disturbance broke out in Australia after a passenger on a plane preparing for takeoff claimed to have a bomb.
According to foreign media outlets, including the Daily Mail, a Turkish Airlines flight bound for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, was taxiing toward the runway at Sydney Airport in Australia on the 21st local time when a crew member asked a male passenger, "What is the electronic device you are carrying?"
He then reportedly said that he had a bomb.
The captain immediately reported the situation and explained that the item in question appeared to be a wireless phone charger.
As a precaution, the airline moved passengers seated near the man to other seats. Police later boarded the aircraft and arrested him.
The arrested man was identified as a 44-year-old Montenegro national. He has been charged with threatening aviation security and is expected to appear in court soon.
In a statement, the Australian Federal Police said, "Bomb threats are extremely serious," adding, "Some people may think such remarks are a joke, but they cause major disruption to airport operations and trigger emergency response systems."
It also warned, "Falsely claiming to have a bomb is not a prank but a crime," and added, "It can lead not only to prosecution but also to substantial punishment."
According to Australian authorities, if the charge is upheld, he could face a fine of up to AUD 15,000, or about 11 million won.
Police are currently investigating the exact circumstances of the incident and the intent behind the statement.
Jang Jong-ho, bellho@sportschosun.com
