A loaded firearm was discovered by the Transportation Security Administration during a checkpoint at Port Columbus over the weekend.

A loaded firearm was discovered by the Transportation Security Administration at a checkpoint at Port Columbus over the weekend.

The firearm was a 9mm Beretta handgun found in a passenger’s carry-on bag.

The TSA alerted airport police who took possession of the bag.

Firearms are allowed to be transported in checked baggage as long as they are unloaded and in a proper case. They are prohibited in carry-on bags.

TSA Spokesman Mark Howell says passengers should take precautions before arriving to the airport.

“Passengers are responsible for the contents of bags they bring to the checkpoint,” Howell said. “Our advice is to look through bags thoroughly before coming to the airport to make sure they are no illegal or prohibited items.”