A recent incident at Tampa International Airport drew attention when Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers discovered an unusual item during a security check. Officers found a 4-inch, double-edged knife hidden inside a flashlight resembling a baseball bat.

TSA Officer Andrew Carter spotted the anomaly during an X-ray screening of the passenger’s carry-on bag. The unusual appearance of the flashlight prompted him to flag the bag for further inspection.

Upon closer examination, Supervisory TSA Officer Michael Slaughter identified a mass beneath the bag’s lining. When the lining was removed, the flashlight detached and revealed the concealed knife.

Initially, the passenger claimed ignorance regarding the item. However, airport police later discovered he had intentionally hidden it to save space. As a result, the passenger was arrested and barred from traveling.

Keith Jeffries, the vice president of K2 Security Screening Group, stated that concealed blades are not uncommon at security checkpoints. Items like walking canes often contain hidden blades, sometimes unbeknownst to passengers.

In cases where passengers intentionally conceal blades, it poses serious risks. Jeffries noted the Tampa case as a concern due to the passenger’s admission of concealment.

TSA allows passengers who bring knives to voluntarily surrender them and continue their journey. However, legal actions depend on each case. Travelers may face civil penalties or lose TSA PreCheck privileges.

Jeffries stresses the importance of knowing your luggage contents and avoiding actions that test airport security. Travelers should pack their bags themselves and be aware of the contents.

For further advice, he stated, “Pack your own bag, know what’s in your bag and do not try to test the system. Do not test the security system. You will lose.”

Fox News Digital contacted the TSA for further comments on the incident.