An inert grenade was discovered in a passenger’s checked bag by TSA officers at LaGuardia Airport in New York.
Despite being innocuous, the finding led security officers to move quickly. TSA officials will now utilize the grenade, which was a gift from a museum, as a training aid.
TSA officials found an inert grenade in a checked luggage on Monday, causing an unusual interruption for travelers at New York’s LaGuardia Airport. Despite being innocuous, the object caused law enforcement and airport security to act right away.
A TSA representative stated that the bomb was discovered during standard luggage inspection. The tourist convinced officials that the hollowed-out grenade, which he had received as a gift from a museum, was a harmless souvenir.
The incident was promptly responded to by TSA bomb specialists and Port Authority police. Inspection revealed that the grenade was inert, a training aid that is frequently used for safety drills but isn’t working.
The TSA spokeswoman stated, “We take such discoveries very seriously, even though this item posed no danger.” Inert grenades are not allowed in checked or carry-on luggage, although they might still create alarm during screening.
The TSA kept the grenade after the inquiry and intends to use it as a training tool to help agents recognize similar items in the future.
Travelers are reminded by this occurrence to thoroughly read TSA regulations prior to packing. Delays and more security measures may result from even innocuous reproductions.
The incident was handled without interfering with airport operations because of the prompt and courteous reaction of TSA officers and law police. The unexpected discovery highlights how diligent airport security personnel are in ensuring the safety of passengers.
