A Scottish woman was detained in Delhi for carrying a GPS device, facing legal issues while awaiting court proceedings.
Delhi: A Scottish hiker named Heather Mackins recently found herself in a bit of a pickle. She was arrested at Delhi’s airport after security discovered she was carrying a GPS tracking device.
Heather had flown to Delhi to celebrate the New Year and was planning to head to Rishikesh for a yoga retreat. But things took a turn when she went through security at Indira Gandhi International Airport.
As she placed her Garmin inReach Mini in the scanner tray, she was pulled aside by security. After a long wait, she learned that the device was illegal in India, and the police were called in.
After hours of being held, she was informed that she would need to attend court. Now, she’s stuck in Delhi, waiting to see what happens next.
In an emotional Instagram video, Heather shared her shock and urged others to be cautious, as she had just found out that these devices are banned in India.
She recounted her experience, saying, “I was just trying to catch my flight to Rishikesh when I was stopped. I had no idea this would happen.”
While waiting for the police, she reached out to the Embassy for help, but they couldn’t intervene in legal matters. Eventually, she was taken to a police station where she was questioned and had to sign several documents.
Heather, who originally hails from Scotland but now lives in West Yorkshire, was released later that evening but must return for court. She’s not alone in this; just last month, another traveler faced similar trouble for carrying the same device.
These small satellite messaging devices are popular among hikers and backpackers for staying connected in remote areas. However, they violate the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1933, which bans possession of such equipment without a license.
The UK government warns travelers that it’s illegal to have satellite phones in India without proper permission. Heather’s experience serves as a reminder to be aware of local laws when traveling.
Delhi police have been contacted for further comments on the situation.
