Plane Passenger Arrested After Trying to Sneak Homemade Explosive and Zip Ties Through Security

A traveler was arrested at a California airport after authorities say he tried to get through security with a disturbing collection of prohibited items, including a homemade explosive firework, a knife and zip ties.

The incident happened around 9:30 p.m. Saturday, May 30, at Sacramento International Airport, according to local reports citing the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities said the 49-year-old man was going through a TSA checkpoint when screeners noticed a suspicious item inside his carry-on bag. Sheriff’s deputies stationed at the airport were immediately called to the scene.

“As he was going through the TSA checkpoint and his bag was screened, a prohibited item was identified or a potential prohibited item was identified,” Sgt. Edward Igoe told ABC10. “They automatically notify our sheriff’s deputies on scene there who responded.”

When deputies inspected the bag, they allegedly found a homemade explosive firework, a knife, zip ties, five cell phones, a torch lighter and aerosol cans.

After investigating, authorities said they arrested the man without incident.

“It really underscores the great working relationship that our agency has with the TSA in helping keep SMF and our passengers safe,” Igoe said.

The man was reportedly attempting to board a departing flight from Sacramento, but authorities have not released his destination. His name has also not been made public as investigators continue working to determine why he allegedly had the items in his bag.

The suspect was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail and is facing state charges, including possession of a dangerous device, according to ABC10.

Under California law, anyone who possesses materials with the intent to make a destructive device or explosive without a valid permit can face felony charges and a possible prison sentence.

The airport scare comes just months after another alarming discovery at a California airport. In March, a U.S. Marine was detained at Palm Springs International Airport after TSA officers found what authorities later confirmed was a live 25mm explosive round during checked baggage screening.

In the Sacramento case, officials have not said whether the man intended to use the items or whether the alleged homemade explosive firework posed an immediate threat.

Still, the discovery sparked serious concern because of the combination of items authorities say were found together in the carry-on bag.