Photo: TSA An unusual case at the security checkpoint at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in the United States: two security screeners found a sharp and unusual item in a passenger's carry-on bag, which looked like it was taken from a superhero or horror movie.
According to a statement from the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), inspectors Douglas Lin and Dennis Oishi identified the item while reviewing the luggage's X-ray images. Lin noticed three blades and features resembling sharp claws, and realized that further inspection was required before the luggage could continue its journey.
“I saw three blades and distinct claw-like features,” said Linn. “I was amazed, and even more so when it came out of the bag. I have never seen anything like this during my two years at TSA.”
Oishi, who was in charge of the physical baggage inspection, searched the bag, verified the finding, and handled the incident in accordance with screening procedures.
The inspector in charge, Ann Rhoades, was also surprised by the unusual item. When Oishi asked the passenger if there was a sharp object in the bag, the passenger replied that he was not sure. After the item was removed, he remembered it and decided to voluntarily give it up at the checkpoint.
Robert Spinden, TSA's director of federal security at the airport, praised the two employees for their alertness, cooperation and adherence to procedures. He said their actions prevented the prohibited item from passing through the checkpoint and illustrated the importance of rigorous screening.
The case illustrates that even accessories that appear to be costume items or movie props can be considered dangerous and prohibited from being carried in the cabin. The TSA statement did not provide details about the passenger's identity or the purpose of carrying the items.