Passenger Boards Ethiopian Airlines Flight with Undetected Training Grenades at OR Tambo

 Discovery of training grenades in Addis Ababa exposes serious gaps in baggage screening at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport.

Security oversight at one of Africa’s busiest airports sparks investigation, fines, and leadership suspension after inert grenades pass through unchecked

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A recent security breach at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport has raised serious concerns after a passenger managed to board an Ethiopian Airlines flight with two training hand grenades in his checked luggage. The grenades passed through baggage screening unnoticed and were only discovered upon arrival in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Security Oversight Sparks Investigation

The failure to detect the devices has led to a multi-agency investigation. Although the grenades were inert and used for training purposes, aviation security experts have emphasized the potential risks posed by such items, particularly in terms of causing alarm or being mistaken for live explosives.

South African authorities have confirmed that the grenades were flagged during routine baggage checks at Bole International Airport. The discovery triggered alerts, leading to further inspections and the involvement of Ethiopian security officials.

Responsibility and Accountability

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), which operates OR Tambo, has pointed to Aviation Coordination Services (ACS) as the body responsible for screening checked baggage. However, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has held ACSA accountable, noting that the airport operator bears ultimate responsibility for ensuring safety, even when services are outsourced.

As a result, the CAA has imposed a R2 million fine on ACSA. In addition, Mzwandile Petros, ACSA’s head of security, has been placed on precautionary leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

Lapses in Screening Technology and Oversight

ACS has responded by defending its role, attributing the lapse in part to outdated scanner technology. They argue that without investment in modern screening equipment, such incidents are difficult to prevent. However, regulators and safety analysts argue that basic protocols should have caught the presence of the grenades.

Global Security Implications

The incident has prompted calls for tighter regulations and more rigorous training for personnel involved in aviation security. Experts have warned that even non-lethal items like training grenades must be treated with the utmost caution to avoid security threats or public panic.

The passenger involved is currently under investigation by Ethiopian authorities, who are working with South African counterparts to determine how the items were packed and whether there was any intent to deceive.