Flydubai attack suspect reportedly barred from flying

The co-pilot accused of attacking the captain of a flydubai flight bound for Israel had reportedly been barred from flying in Oman because of concerns over his alleged extremist views.

The suspect was identified by several media outlets as Omani national Hamam al-Hammami. Reports about his background have emerged as authorities investigate the incident that occurred aboard a flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.

The flight was forced to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after the co-pilot allegedly attacked the Indian captain inside the cockpit.

Despite the assault, the captain managed to open the cockpit door. Passengers and crew members then intervened and overpowered the alleged attacker.

Several international media organisations have reported that the suspect had previously faced concerns in Oman over his ideological views.

The Wall Street Journal, citing people familiar with the matter, reported that Omani authorities had stopped the pilot from flying because of concerns that he had adopted radical views.

CNN reported, citing two sources familiar with the matter, that he had been removed from a position at Oman’s national airline last year over concerns about extremist views.

Al Arabiya also reported that Omani authorities had identified the co-pilot as holding extremist views. The broadcaster further claimed that he had spent time in Syria, raising questions about whether he had been exposed to radical groups there.

ABC News, citing senior intelligence and law enforcement officials familiar with the investigation, reported that the suspect had allegedly possessed extremist material while undergoing training.

The reports have intensified scrutiny of the co-pilot’s background and possible motive for the alleged cockpit attack.

Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the suspect’s previous employment, travel history and alleged ideological links.