Srinagar – Two perons, including a US national, detained at Srinagar airport over the alleged possession of a satellite phone were released on Sunday after authorities said no incriminating evidence was found
Police identified the individuals as Jeffrey Scott Prather, a resident of Montana, and Haldar Koushik, originally from Kolkata but now based in the US. Both had been scheduled to travel to Delhi by Air India flight AI1893 when security personnel flagged a device in their luggage during routine checks.
Officials said that the two were intercepted during routine security checks, following which a satellite GPS device (made in Taiwan) was recovered from their handbag.
The two men were briefly deboarded from an Air India flight and handed over to police for questioning. Authorities examined their travel history and the purpose of their visit to Kashmir, a region where security restrictions remain stringent.
However, hours later, a senior police officer said the duo were set free after verification. “Nothing was found against them,” said Aadil Tak, in charge of the Humhama police post. He added that the device initially suspected to be a satellite phone was determined to be “a normal GPS device”, and no case had been registered.
Initial reports had suggested that customs officials were investigating the recovery of a satellite communication device, triggering concerns over compliance with local laws governing restricted communication equipment. Security agencies treated the matter cautiously, given longstanding concerns over unauthorised communications in the region.
The use of satellite phones by civilians is tightly regulated in India and generally prohibited without prior government approval, particularly in sensitive areas such as Jammu and Kashmir. Violations can attract penalties under the Indian Telegraph Act, including fines and possible imprisonment.
Officials said the two US nationals cooperated fully during questioning. While the US embassy was informed of the detention, there was no indication of further diplomatic intervention after their release.
The incident underscores the heightened scrutiny applied to travellers in Jammu and Kashmir, where authorities closely monitor the use of communication technologies. It also highlights the risks faced by international visitors who may be unfamiliar with India’s regulatory framework on restricted devices.
No further action is expected in the case.
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