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The US Transportation Security Agency has announced that it has seized a record number of firearms at US airports. In total, more than 6,000 firearms have been confiscated from travelers at airports across the country, who cannot travel with a handgun in their hand luggage. As a result, the agency announced on Friday, December 16, that it would increase the fine in such cases.
With our correspondent in New York, Loubna Anaki
Americans want to have their guns everywhereand airports are no exception. Despite the safety regulations in place, some travelers do not hesitate to try their luck at packing firearms in their hand luggage.
Outcome: The Transportation Security Agency (TSA) says it has seized 6,300 firearms since the beginning of the year, a record and a 10% increase from 2021.
And nearly all of these guns were loaded, authorities say. Atlanta and Dallas airports are the best.
In principle, firearms are only permitted in checked baggage, provided they are unloaded and placed in a secure box, and the owner informs the airline in advance.
Given the constant progress of these seizures at airports, the TSA has therefore announced an increase in the foreseen fine: from 13,900 to 14,950 dollars (from 13,114 euros to 14,104 euros). But the agency acknowledges that these fines are rarely enforced and are not a deterrent. Earlier this year, the agency asked Congress for tougher measures.
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