TSA Warns Travelers About Cat Eye Weapons

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has reported a significant increase in the discovery of 'cat eyes'—keychain weapons resembling brass knuckles—at airport security checkpoints, causing delays for travelers. TSA Federal Security Director Bart R. Johnson emphasized that these items are weapons and are prohibited in carry-on luggage, urging passengers to leave them at home. Passengers found with cat eyes are given options to either return them to their vehicle, check them in, or surrender them for disposal. The TSA's increased vigilance aims to maintain safety and efficiency at airports, as the presence of these items can significantly slow down security processing. The cat eyes can be made from various materials, including metal and plastic, and are popularized as self-defense tools. Incidents involving these weapons have raised concerns, including a recent attack on a U.S. Congressman using a cat eye weapon.