A Jet Airways flight bound for Mumbai was detained at Nedumbassery International Airport near Kochi on Tuesday evening after a passenger on board claimed to be in possession of explosives.

Joseph alias Fischer, who was disallowed to carry some gel items while boarding the flight, told the airhostess that he was in possession of some explosives, though his gel items were taken away by the groundstaff, airport sources said.

The pilot was informed of the matter and all the 91 passengers and their luggage were immediately off-loaded. A thorough inspection of the plane was then carried out.

Joseph was taken away to be questioned by security personnel. An aquaintance of his, Saji, was also taken into custody since Joseph had been staying with him in Muvattupuzha. 

The flight was scheduled to leave at 3.50 pm.