Apparent human remains found during luggage check at Tampa airport: CBP

TAMPA, Fla. — Apparent human remains were found in a luggage check at Tampa International Airport (TPA), according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Tampa and Miami Director of Field Operations Carlos C. Martel posted via the social media platform X what started as a passenger declaring just 10 cigars at TPA turned bizarre.

According to the post, CBP agriculture specialists found prohibited plants, undeclared cigars, and "a foil-wrapped duffel bag containing what looked like human remains, including part of a skull."

Martel said the traveler claimed the items were for rituals.

Officials noted they seized the items and destroyed them due to serious health risks.