The Victor M. Power Airport in Timmins was closed Saturday morning after baggage inspectors found "a suspicious item."
The item turned out to be a replica grenade in a 22-year-old man's luggage.
Police say the item was found during a routine baggage screening around 4:30 a.m. and an OPP explosive disposal unit was called in after it was tested and determined to be flammable or explosive in nature.
It has since been determined that the item was a “novelty cigarette lighter” made to look like a grenade. Police say a container of lighter fluid was also found inside the baggage.
Timmins Police issued a release that stated:
"The Timmins Police Service has responded a number of calls for service at the Timmins airport of a similar nature, requiring police investigation. The importance of travelers being astute and aware of the potential cause for alarm when transporting prohibited items and substances cannot be underestimated. Common sense would dictate that any item likely to cause alarm or fright should not be included with your travel baggage.”
The evacuation of the airport was issued as per established public safety protocols.
The airpot was closed from 4:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
A 22-year-old South Porcupine man who owns the suspicious item has been taken into custody as part of an “ongoing investigation.”
It is not clear if any charges will be laid.
With files from CP24