TSA warns travelers in Albany about rising concealed cat eyes weapons
- TSA officials in Albany report an increase in concealed weapons called 'cat eyes,' which resemble kitty faces and are used for self-defense.
- These items are classified as clubs and are prohibited in carry-on luggage, leading to delays at security checkpoints.
- Travelers are urged to be aware of such items to avoid complications during the screening process.
Transportation Security Administration officials in Albany have raised alarms regarding an increase in concealed weapons known as "cat eyes." These self-defense tools, resembling brass knuckles but designed as kitty faces, are made from metal or hard plastic. They allow users to slip their fingers through eye holes and use the pointed ears for self-defense, which can lead to serious injuries. The TSA has classified these items as clubs, making them prohibited in carry-on luggage. Bart R. Johnson, the TSA Federal Security Director for 13 airports in Upstate New York, expressed disappointment over the frequency of these items being found during security screenings. Travelers often forget they have these seemingly innocuous keychain accessories, which can also be modeled after dogs. This oversight can lead to delays at security checkpoints as TSA officers must address the presence of these items. When detected, TSA officers provide travelers with options: return the item to their vehicle, hand it off to a non-traveling companion, check it in with the airline, or surrender it for disposal. The presence of cat eyes is part of a broader trend, as TSA agents have reported a significant increase in the confiscation of weapons at airports, including a record number of firearms last year. The rise in concealed weapons like cat eyes not only poses a safety concern but also contributes to longer wait times for passengers at security checkpoints. The TSA continues to urge travelers to be mindful of the items they carry to ensure a smoother travel experience.