A man left a crude explosive device in a briefcase at a New York City bus terminal, but it did not detonate, police have said.

Thirty-nine-year-old Arsenio Mason was charged on Thursday with possession of a weapon and possession of a controlled substance.

The criminal complaint said Mr Mason left a briefcase on a chair inside a deli at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey bus terminal during the Wednesday night rush hour. The terminal is a major thoroughfare for buses in and out of New York City.

A bomb squad detective said it contained a crude device. No injuries were reported.

Mr Mason was arrested nearby. Police said they also found methamphetamine.

Mr Mason is being held without bail on a separate criminal case in California. His lawyer did not immediately return a call.