Security screening officers at Dipolog Airport confiscated an empty ammunition shell from a passenger after detecting it concealed in the waistband area of his pants, the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) reported Tuesday.

According to OTS, a screening officer noticed a suspicious object on Monday around the passenger’s waist during routine screening and alerted a member of the Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP) for further inspection.

Authorities later confirmed that the object was an M16 empty shell carried by the passenger as an amulet. 

The item was turned over to airport police for documentation. The passenger was later on allowed to board his flight. 

OTS reminded travelers not to bring amulets or objects made out of ammunition regardless if it is live or empty without proper permits to avoid delays at airport checkpoints during the holiday season. 

“They should check their bags for any prohibited items they may have forgotten from their previous travel.”  OTS Administrator Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz said.