Summary
Authorities at Tampa International Airport found a human skull and bones in a passenger's bag during a routine inspection. The passenger said the remains were for ritual use, but they posed health risks and were destroyed. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) emphasized that transporting human remains requires following strict federal guidelines.
Key Facts
- A human skull and bones were found in a carry-on bag at Tampa International Airport.
- The remains were wrapped in foil and discovered during a routine baggage check.
- The CBP said the remains were intended for ritual use by the passenger.
- U.S. law requires strict guidelines for transporting human remains, including a death certificate for non-cremated remains.
- Remains that are not cremated or embalmed may need a CDC import permit for entry into the U.S.
- CBP destroyed the remains due to health risks.
- Photos showed the remains partially wrapped in aluminum foil and laid out in evidence bags for inspection.
- No additional information was given about the passenger or potential charges.
