New security scanning equipment of international standard have been installed for use at Lesotho’s Moshoeshoe I International Airport and it is expected to facilitate tender care services to especially tourists and investors.

Two airport X-rays and two metal detectors were inaugurated December 17 by public works and transport minister Tšoeu Mokeretla.

Valued over M3.2 million, the modern security equipment “will allow the country to be part of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) after it was excluded due to lack of correct security equipment at the airport,” Mr Mokeretla revealed.

Acknowledging that the airport is not in good condition Mr Mokeretla pleaded with employees to up their tempo and provide good services to passengers regardless of the sorry state of the airport until the time when overhaul repairs would be done.

Mr Mokeretla said the equipment would accelerate the processes of transiting domestic and international travellers who would now be separated to avoid clustering.

He explained: “These machines are also meant to assist airport security to detect illegal substances such as explosives, weapons and narcotics without having to physically search in the passenger’s hand luggage.”