BOISE, Idaho (ABC4) Officers with the Transportation Security Administration made a “shocking” discovery during a routine security check at the Boise Airport on Tuesday.
The federal agency said one passenger attempted to get through the security checkpoint with a stun gun that was “artfully concealed” as part of a cane.
In a press release, TSA said one of its officers noticed that the cane appeared to be tampered with and requested a search of the traveler’s bag. The search resulted in the discovery of the stun gun that was hidden inside the cane near the removable handle.
The traveler reportedly told TSA they bought the cane in California after they were unable to find a cane with a sword hidden inside. The traveler reportedly wanted the cane for self-defense.
“The discovery of this shocking device perfectly illustrates why TSA screens all personal property and travelers for potential security threats every time,” said James Spies, TSA Federal Security Director for Idaho. “I am grateful the TSA officer who noticed something was amiss with the cane acted on their instincts and ultimately kept this item from making it into the cabin of the aircraft.”
The TSA said all weapons, including electro-shock weapons, tasers, and stun guns, should always travel in checked luggage and not a carry-on bag. Weapons must also be packed in a way that makes them inoperable from any possible accidental discharge.
The traveler in this case, according to TSA, voluntarily abandoned his cane-like stun gun with TSA before continuing on his travels. TSA said there was no impact on security or airport operations.
