Police have cautioned the public not to utter the word ‘bomb’ even in a joking manner at the KLIA or KLIA2 airports.

According to Sepang district police chief Abdul Aziz Ali, the rise in such cases is a cause for concern.

"Throughout last year, there were seven cases involving individuals who uttered the word, four at KLIA and three at KLIA2.

"However, since January until May 3 this year, there are already eight cases, two at KLIA and six at KLIA 2," he was quoted as saying by Bernama.

Though not a threat, the district police chief said uttering such a word is considered a serious offence.

Furthermore, Abdul Aziz said those who do so would be arrested and taken to the district police headquarters, and might end up missing their flights.

"They would then have to bear the cost of purchasing a new airline ticket," he said, adding that the latest case was reported at KLIA2 two days ago.

Abdul Aziz also pointed out that offenders could be charged under Section 506 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation which carries a maximum seven-year jail term, fine or both.

He said all of the 15 individuals, including two foreigners, arrested so far have been charged at the Sepang Magistrate's Court.