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TSA workers seize replica grenade launcher found in Florida man’s luggage

Posted at 10:20 AM, Mar 06, 2019
and last updated 2019-03-06 10:20:19-05

HANOVER TOWNSHIP, Pa. – TSA workers found what appeared to be a grenade launcher inside a man's bag at Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley International Airport.

Officials at the airport near Allentown say TSA officers discovered the object Monday when the checked bag passed through scanners.

Rocket-propelled grenade launcher that was packed in a traveler’s checked bag at Lehigh Valley International Airport (Photo courtesy: TSA)

Inside, they found parts of an unassembled military rocket-propelled grenade launcher and what appeared to be a grenade.

A man from Florida was detained at the gate for questioning.

After inspecting the device, it was determined the launcher was non-functioning, and the grenade was actually a replica.

The man told investigators he thought the item was allowed as long as it was in a checked bag.

Officials say travelers who bring weapons – even replicas – to an airport can face fines of up to $13,000.

Rocket-propelled grenade launcher that was packed in a traveler’s checked bag at Lehigh Valley International Airport (Photo courtesy: TSA)

The items were confiscated, and the man was able to catch his flight.

For a list of prohibited items and potential penalties, click here.