An American university student was detained at Chennai International Airport after authorities discovered a banned satellite phone in his possession during a routine security check.

The incident occurred early Thursday as a Scoot Airlines flight bound for Singapore was preparing for takeoff at 12:30 a.m. Oakley Jackson, 22, a U.S. citizen traveling to Australia via Singapore, was stopped by security personnel who found the satellite phone in his luggage.

Jackson, who arrived in Chennai last week from Delhi on a tourist visa, claimed he was unaware that satellite phones are prohibited in India. He stated that he had carried the device from the U.S. to Delhi and then to Chennai without incident.

However, airport security cited national security concerns and did not accept his explanation. His flight ticket was immediately canceled, and the satellite phone was confiscated. Jackson and the device were handed over to the airport police for investigation.

Authorities are now examining whether Jackson used the satellite phone while in India and, if so, who he communicated with. Investigators are also checking if anyone attempted to contact him through the device.

“Satellite phones can bypass conventional communication networks, making unmonitored usage a serious national security threat,” a senior airport official stated. “Strict action is taken whenever such devices are found.”

The US Consulate in Chennai has been notified and is expected to provide assistance to Jackson during the inquiry.

Under Indian law, satellite phones require prior approval from the Department of Telecommunications. Unauthorized possession or use is considered a punishable offence.

Authorities have warned foreign travelers to declare such devices upon entry and secure proper permissions.

Jackson remains in custody pending the outcome of the investigation.