A traveler targeted for a random check at Philadelphia International Airport yesterday morning caused moments of anxiety when he took off running through the terminal after being asked about a bulge near his knee, according to authorities. Pauley said the passenger responded that he was. But when the agent asked Hamet to lift his pant leg, he noticed a rubber band around his leg and asked what that was. The man responded that it was "something I shouldn't have" and took off running, Pauley said. "He was running barefoot through the terminal," Pauley said, adding, "He's dropping a white powder as he's running away."

That set off alarms as authorities did not know what the powder was, and feared that might have been a drug, anthrax, or some other dangerous substance. "It's frustrating to police and fire personnel because we have to treat it as a hazardous situation, which takes a lot of time and expenses," Pauley said. "We'll look into the matter and try to get restitution." Hamet was apprehended at the baggage-claim area and treated at Mercy Hospital of Philadelphia for a foot injury he suffered during the chase, Pauley said.

Authorities called the city's hazardous-materials team and Fire Department to clean up the white powder - which turned out to be foot powder. Although no flights were affected, three baggage-claim carousels were shut down. The scene was cleared at 12:25 p.m., Pauley said. Hamet was charged with making false statements and interfering with airport screening, authorities said............ http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/n...l/13901855.htm

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