CISF catches cheating-related Bluetooth devices at Goa airport; case registered against two passengers linked to IIT Goa recruitment exam

At the Dabolim International Airport in Goa, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel caught two passengers heading to Delhi on Saturday, 10 October, with Bluetooth earpieces and other electronic devices. According to the CISF, these devices were of the type used for cheating in competitive examinations and were linked to the IIT Goa non-teaching staff recruitment exam held on the same day. Local police have registered a case against both for alleged examination malpractice and have initiated an investigation.

Items caught during X-ray screening

According to CISF information, around 2:25 pm on Saturday, a passenger reached the pre-embarkation security checkpoint to travel from Goa to Delhi on Air India Express flight IX-1340. During the X-ray screening of his handbag, the screener noticed some suspicious items. A physical search of the bag was then conducted, in which three electronic devices, two SIM cards, and three Bluetooth earpieces were found.

The CISF stated that during questioning, the passenger admitted that these devices were intended for cheating in the examination. He also revealed that an accomplice of his had already boarded the same flight.

Second passenger deboarded from aircraft

With the help of airline staff, CISF personnel deboarded the second passenger from the aircraft. A search of his handbag also yielded a similar device, two Bluetooth earpieces, a SIM card, and an admit card for the administrative assistant post in the IIT Goa non-teaching staff recruitment exam. This exam was held on the same day. According to the CISF, the second passenger also admitted that the device was for use in the same examination.

Accused of taking the exam on behalf of another candidate

Joint questioning of both individuals was conducted with the relevant intelligence agencies. It was reported that the first accused stated he had appeared for the same exam on behalf of another candidate. It was also stated that Aadhaar cards of two other individuals were recovered from him, which he had allegedly thrown in the security hold area. All these details are cited from the CISF and are yet to be proven in court.

Accused handed over to police

Both passengers, along with all recovered devices and documents, were initially handed over to the Dabolim Airport police station. Since the examination center falls under the jurisdiction of the Ponda police station, the case was later transferred there. According to available information, a case has been registered against both, and the police are investigating. The investigation is also looking into whether other individuals were involved in this malpractice.

Appreciating the vigilance of the screening personnel, the CISF stated that this was the reason the two passengers could be stopped from leaving Goa with items linked to examination malpractice.

Current status

The names, addresses, and sections of the case for both accused have not been made public. There is no formal confirmation of arrests in the available information. We also do not have any statement from IIT Goa in this regard. The report will be updated as the investigation progresses.