The use of these scanners hampers the movement of passengers and invades their privacy, Brigadier Ahmed bin Thani, Director of the Airport Security Department of the Dubai Police, said at a press conference on Monday.

The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has not instructed airports to use them on passengers, but airports in some countries, especially in the West, are using them, he said.

The department has prepared a comprehensive plan to control the pressure of the added passenger volume during summer. The plan would be implemented by the security team at Dubai International Airport ensuring smooth completion of the passengers’ travelling procedures without causing delays, he said.

The department has banned the use of the full-body X-ray scanners to protect the passengers’ privacy. The other devices used in the airport can ensure safety and security.

The department recorded criminal cases against 732 people on various charges in 2009, including use of fake passports and theft. As many as 1,382 people were booked for drug-related offences. Some passengers were detained for carrying sharp tools and knives inside belts and blankets.

The number of people coming on fake visas or without visas has dropped after the department started instructing the airlines to return such people to the ports of departure and imposing fines on them, Bin Thani said.

Such persons are kept in a special area in the airport till the carrier flew them back to their countries.

Preparations for summer rush

The department has made all preparations to handle the summer rush. Employees of the Department of Naturalisation and Residency have been trained to speed up the procedures.

Bin Thani said the passengers also must show responsibility by abiding by the laws for ensuring smooth movement. They must not indulge in banned practices like carrying sharp tools and batteries in shoes, more than 100ml of milk or liquids in hand luggage, drugs or any other objects that would affect passengers’ safety.

amira@khaleejtimes.com