The TSA might call the cops on you for yawning too much–but they probably won’t detect a bomb strapped to you.
According to an internal investigation uncovered by ABC News, agents at dozens of airports failed to apprehend mock weapons in 95 percent of Homeland Security’s undercover tests. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson has now “reassigned” the agency’s acting administrator.
According to NBC News, one agent couldn’t manage to find the fake explosive strapped to an undercover investigator’s back—even though he gave him a pat-down after the explosive set off an alarm.
In test after test, undercover investigators snuck banned items into airports “with alarming ease,” as the AP reports:
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The Government Accountability Office has identified serious problems detailing security failures under TSA as far back as 2002.
Investigators in 2007 passed through security checkpoints with “components for several improvised explosive devices and an improvised incendiary device concealed in their carry-on luggage and on their persons.”
The report also determined that, after spending well over $500,000 million on additional screening equipment since 2009, the agency “failed to make any noticeable improvements.”
But don’t worry—Rep. John Mica, (R-Fla.), a former TSA proponent turned TSA critic, said, “I’ve seen far worse. The results I’ve gotten back are even worse than what you see being released here.”
