Airport Crackdown: More Banned Items Seized in Security Checks
Confiscations on the Rise
Authorities at UK airports, particularly Gatwick, are seeing a surge in banned items being caught during bag searches. The haul includes small multi-tools with locking blades and camping knives—tools often seen as handy outdoors but illegal to carry.
Legal Abroad, Illegal Here
Items that are legal in other countries, like pepper sprays and incapacitant sprays, remain banned in the UK. Carrying these can land you in hot water with the law, leading to criminal convictions and the destruction of your contraband.
Clear Warnings for Travellers
Chief Inspector Chris Veale warned: “We are regularly seeing passengers in possession of items that could constitute an offence in the UK. All passengers using Gatwick Airport are reminded to check their bags and cases carefully for prohibited items.”
He added, “This is especially important for people using bags that haven’t been air-travelled since before the pandemic or bags previously used at work where tools might be needed for the job.”
Know Before You Go
- UK law bans all offensive weapons and bladed articles with locking blades, including camping knives and multi-tools.
- Travellers returning from abroad must not bring items like pepper sprays to the airport.
- Confiscated forbidden items are destroyed, and offenders may face prosecution.
Inspector Veale urged, “If you’re unsure about what’s allowed, contact your airline or check the airport website before travelling.”
