World · Singapore Bureau
British traveller jailed for drunken disturbance at Changi Airport
A British national has been sentenced to jail after causing a disturbance at Singapore's Changi Airport while intoxicated, triggering an anti-hijacking alert during the incident.
LSN Singapore ·

Arudchelvan Karnan, a British traveller, was convicted and imprisoned following a disruptive incident at Changi Airport that forced authorities to activate security protocols. The disturbance occurred after Karnan consumed a 700-millilitre bottle of whiskey at his hotel prior to arriving at the airport terminal.
The incident escalated to the point where airport security felt compelled to activate an anti-hijacking button, bringing emergency response procedures into effect. The activation of such security measures during the incident underscored the seriousness of the disruption and the perceived threat level at the time.
Karnan's case highlights the consequences of alcohol-fuelled misconduct at one of Asia's busiest aviation hubs. Singapore's courts have consistently taken a strict stance on disruptive behaviour at the airport, particularly incidents that trigger security responses or compromise passenger safety.
The sentencing serves as a reminder to travellers of Singapore's zero-tolerance approach toward unruly conduct in sensitive security zones. Changi Airport authorities continue to work with law enforcement to maintain safety standards across all terminal facilities.