If you're a fan of video game collectibles and are planning to travel with them, you might want to reconsider packing any items that resemble weapons from games like Call of Duty. A recent post by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) on their Facebook page, as reported by Dexerto, serves as a reminder of what not to bring in your luggage. TSA officers at Boston Logan International Airport discovered a replica figurine of the Monkey Bomb from Call of Duty's Zombies mode in a passenger's checked bag.
The Monkey Bomb, also known as the Cymbal Monkey, is a popular item featured in various Call of Duty games, from World at War to Black Ops 6. This particular figurine is designed to hold a game controller with its outstretched hands, but it also closely resembles a weapon, complete with what looks like dynamite and cables.
"This monkey may rack up points in a game, but in real life, leave the gear for your loadout screen, not your baggage," the TSA's post humorously noted. They emphasized that replica weapons and explosives, no matter how cool or collectible, are not permitted in either carry-on or checked baggage.
The TSA's website further elaborates on prohibited toy weapons, including "squirt guns, Nerf guns, toy swords, or other items that resemble realistic firearms or weapons." This incident might even serve as unintended advertising for the high-quality Monkey Bomb replica.
If you're heading to a convention or any event where you might pick up such merchandise, it's crucial to be aware of these regulations. The TSA warns that any item, whether it's a monkey figurine or Naruto-themed throwing knives, will be prohibited in both checked and carry-on baggage if it's deemed a security threat, even if it's just a replica.