Potential Threat at Airports: Remote-Controlled Toys

Oct. 1, 2007
TSA concerned that remote control toys could be used to signal detonators

WASHINGTON -- Airport screeners will be taking a closer look at remote control toys in carry-on luggage due to concerns they could be used to detonate bombs, U.S. officials said Monday.

The new practice is not a result of a specific threat, according to the Transportation Security Administration. But authorities recently arrested two Florida college students who posted a video online with instructions on how to use a remote-controlled toy to set off a bomb.

Passengers - including children - carrying these toys may have to go through secondary screening.

"While not associated with a specific threat at this time, TSA is aware that remote control toys can be used to initiate devices used in terrorist attacks," according to Monday's press release. "Transportation security officers have trained on this possibility and travelers may encounter additional screening when bringing remote control devices in carry-on luggage."

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