Originally Posted by
drewguy
Usually security removes it and doesn't return it, and the traveler has to file a theft report, so he's lucky.
BTW, if this was security at the arrivals end, the US CBP takes the position that it may inspect and confiscate any computer/laptop entering the country, based on the theory that they may contain illicit material (e.g. pirated software, media content, or child porn).
I did ask if it was arrivals-security, but didn't get a reply yet. He did report having a sticker on and a "love letter" (not his word) in his bag from security, and that when he contacted them about the missing laptop they referred him to an office - it sounds like "in person".
I will make sure to get back here with more info, if I get anything more from him.
Would customs on arrival open the checked bag without you there? I've had secondary (agricultural) several times (I often bring food, always permitted, and also lived in the UK during cattle decease times), but never (to my knowing) have CBP opened my checked bag before it got to me.
It may be a losing battle, but I do like to try to understand what goes on, to enable me to travel as easily as possible!
DanishFlyer