TSA stops man carrying explosive device from boarding plane

Federal prosecutors accused a 49-year-old man of trying to board a plane with explosives and other weapons, the Department of Justice reported earlier this week. Transportation Security Administration officials stopped Kimani Osayande Jones at a security checkpoint inside Sacramento International Airport on the night of May 30.

Security officials allegedly found an explosive in his carry-on bag, along with a torch lighter, a knife, scissors, scissor blades, zip ties, and an aerosol can. Airport officials reported Jones wearing latex gloves and a scarf that covered his face.

How serious is the supposed explosive? Officials tested the explosive device after discovery and found the power and fuse viable and energetic, the DOJ said. The device could have damaged the aircraft and caused cabin pressure loss if detonated near a window, according to prosecutors. TSA located five cellphones on Jones’ person, one with a 15-minute timer on the screen and another with the message, “we will be awaiting your call” from an unidentified number.

The DOJ noted that charges are merely allegations and that the defendant is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted, Jones may face up to five years in prison, along with a $250,000 fine.