They implemented a similar thing in ALG a few weeks ago on the LGW flight. Passengers were told at the check-in desk (which everyone has to use, no mobile BPs in ALG) to check-in laptops and larger electronic items. Not good for me as I use the route regularly and never check-in a bag as I have a tight train to catch from LGW.
However this only lasted a few weeks and was lifted a week or so ago. So it may not be a permanent thing in CAI.