Tampa, FL — A routine inspection at Tampa International Airport took a shocking turn when U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers uncovered a bizarre array of items in a passenger’s luggage, according to a statement from Director of Field Operations Carlos C. Martel.
What began with a passenger declaring just 10 cigars escalated into a discovery of prohibited plants, undeclared cigars, and a foil-wrapped duffel bag containing what appeared to be human remains, including part of a skull. The traveler claimed the items were intended for ritualistic purposes. However, due to significant health risks, CBP Agriculture Specialists seized and destroyed the items.
“At CBP, we never know what baggage may hold,” said Director Martel. “But smugglers should know we’ll always have a bone to pick.”
Nothing further at this time.
Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection Director of Field Operations Carlos C. Martel.
