Photo: Police Nationale 971 Guadeloupe St Barth St Martin Highly unusual incident in the Caribbean. A female traveler heading to the island of Guadeloupe from St. Maarten was arrested after a gun was found in her suitcase.
According to a statement from the Guadeloupe and St. Barths-Dent-Martin police, the incident occurred on Tuesday this week (March 31, 2026), when the weapon was seized during the screening of the passenger's suitcase at Grand Case Airport.
The police said the suspicious object was identified by the automatic detection equipment, and a comprehensive examination found the weapon in the suitcase. According to the photos published by the local police, and although this was not stated in the statement, it can be seen that, in addition to the gun, a magazine with bullets was also seized.
Shortly after, the Border Police summoned the passenger, who was taken into custody.
Although the strange story took place in the Caribbean, it is a great opportunity to remind you of what is absolutely forbidden to fly in a suitcase or hand luggage, and what is allowed to fly in hand luggage only.
Hazardous materials: explosives, fuel, flammable liquids (including lighter fluid), gas cylinders, toxic or radioactive materials.
Weapons and sharp objects: guns, knives, tools, including screwdrivers and drills.
Lithium batteries: Portable chargers (Power Banks) and rechargeable lithium batteries are prohibited from being shipped in the aircraft cabin due to the risk of electrocution. Batteries may be flown in hand luggage, but many airlines prohibit the use of portable chargers during the flight.
Liquids: In most airports around the world, up to 100 ml only in hand luggage, and no limit on luggage. In recent years, thanks to the introduction of new screening machines, it has been possible to fly liquids in larger volumes at many airports around the world.