More CCTV cameras added to NAIA screening area after alleged extortion

More fish-eye closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras have been added to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) security screening area after an alleged extortion attempt was reported by a Thai tourist.

According to a report by Ian Cruz on “24 Oras,” Kitja Thabthim uploaded a video of a security screening officer who allegedly took cash from him. He said he was extorted and robbed during the final security check.

“She asked me too many questions. Another passenger can get inside really quickly, but for me, I am stuck there for talking to her for a while. My belonging already passed the scanning machine. The second woman, with the longer hair, I think that time she already took my money from my wallet, which is inside my bag,” Thabthim said.

The screening officer took 20,000 yen or P8,000 from him and only returned it after Thabthim threatened to post the video on social media.

“She pulled my hand to another way inside and give me money later on. I worry about my flight back to Thailand,” Thabthim added.

The two security screening officers and three other employees have been placed on preventive suspension. They are all facing administrative and criminal charges.

“It is already bordering criminal act na ito, kung pwede silang makulong to send a very strong signal,” said Office of Transportation Security Administrator Undersecretary Mao Aplasca.

Airport authorities also plan to add more security cameras and supervisors to screening checkpoints, especially since this is now the sixth case that the OTS is investigating. — Sherylin Untalan/BM, GMA Integrated News