We had a similar experience a few years ago, but with a sight twist. We were all packed, dressed, and waiting for the taxi to pick us up at Club O. A friend walked over and gave us a conch as a souvenir. Since the suitcase was locked, I put it in the carryon without thinking. The lady at the security said "What's this", and said I couldn't take it. After some discussion, I asked to speak to her supervisor. Some more discussions, and I asked to speak to HER manager. Thus lady came out of the inner sanctum, took one look at the conch, and said "Nice souvenir. OK, just this one time. Don't do it again". I suppose the conch could have been used as a weapon . All's well that ends well.