Trying to Bring Explosives Onto the Plane, A Man Arrested by US Security Forces

Illustration of arrests. (Wikimedia Commons/Oregon Department of Transportation)

JAKARTA - A man was arrested and charged with allegedly trying to place explosives or an incendiary device on board a plane after his briefcase set off an alarm at Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley International Airport, US authorities said Wednesday.

The FBI said Mark Muffley, 40, of Lansford, Pennsylvania, checked in a suitcase Monday for a flight to Sanford, Florida.

The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said one of its officers found a suspicious object in the suitcase that appeared to be an explosive.

"The FBI and local law enforcement bomb technicians have determined it is indeed an active explosive device," a TSA spokesperson said.

The bag triggered an alarm and officers found what they described as a dangerous object hidden in the baggage lining, with two fuses and powder hidden in waxed paper and plastic wrap, the FBI said in its official complaint.

"The powder is suspected to be a mixture of flash powder and black granules used in commercial grade fireworks," the report said.

"Black powder and flash powder are prone to ignition due to heat and friction, posing a significant risk to aircraft and passengers," the report continued.

After the alarm went off, authorities summoned Muffley to report to airport security. Minutes later, Muffley was seen leaving the airport, the FBI added. That evening, he was arrested at his home.

Further details about the incident, including Muffley's alleged intentions, were not immediately known. Reuters could not immediately reach Muffley or his representatives.

Separately, ABC News reported Muffley will appear in court on Thursday.

The airport said it had partially closed its main terminal on Monday while authorities inspected the suspicious package.