Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers made a surprising discovery inside a passenger’s checked bag, prompted by an alarm from an Xbox console. The TSA announced the incident, which took place at the LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in New York City.

Xbox Alarm Leads to Unexpected Finding

The alarm went off during a routine check, handled by TSA Officer Ashley Leo. Leo was stationed at the on-screen resolution area and redirected the bag to the checked baggage area, where Supervisory Transportation Security Officer (STSO) Christopher Ramos further investigated.

Ramos’s search revealed a plastic bag containing fake IDs beside the Xbox. The licenses had different birthdates and classifications but shared the same photo.

TSA’s Protocol and Security Measures

“I adhered strictly to screening procedures and gave extra attention to anything unusual,” Ramos stated. When he detected the fake IDs, he promptly reported them to higher authorities.

After TSA management, airport officials, and Port Authority police were involved, the IDs were confirmed as fake. The passenger was arrested just before boarding.

“STSO Christopher Ramos’ commitment to standard procedures and keen situational awareness prevented the fake IDs from breaching the airport’s secure area,” said TSA LGA Federal Security Director John Essig. Identifying fraudulent IDs aligns with TSA’s security tactics, ensuring that those entering restricted areas are genuine travelers.

Unusual Finds Across the Nation

This case adds to several unusual finds by TSA officers at airports nationwide. Recent incidents include a pocketknife hidden in toothpaste at Dallas Love Field Airport in Texas, and a knife concealed within a flashlight shaped like a baseball bat at Tampa International Airport in Florida.