2 Americans detained at Srinagar airport

21-Apr-2026

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Two US nationals, including Jeoffery Scot from Montana, were detained at Srinagar airport after a prohibited Garmin satellite phone was found in their luggage. 

India bans unauthorized satellite phones, requiring prior government approval, due to security concerns enforced under the Indian Telegraph Act. Past incidents involve foreign nationals detained for similar violations. 

To prevent such cases, Indian aviation authorities mandated airlines to warn passengers about the ban. US and UK travel advisories also caution travelers about strict penalties, including fines and arrests, for unauthorized satellite device possession.