I have a friend who was picking up his brother-in-law from the Airport in Houston Texas. He got into an argument with the Custom's Official. And was arrested and put into Federal Detention. Well this happened before as he went to pick up his wife's uncle from the Airport. Only last time they were stripped searched and they man handled his wife. So, now they are having to go to court. And it will work in their favor. Cause one of the gaurds from the previous incident was there this time too. So,they may have a good case and an outstanding lawsuit. Wow,things that happen in Texas. In case you are wondering the family members were from the Phillipines and they weren't bringing anything illigal into the country. Cause they check those things before you seal the boxes or whatever they are bringing from over there. My friend has been there in the Federal Detention Center for the last 2 weeks.

bluewolf  [:O]

I've cleared Customs and Immigration on the International side of GB three times in the last three years. I don't think you can even get to that area unless your getting *off* of a plane.
IIIRC, you clear Immigration, then pick up your baggage in a separate International area, then drag them through Customs, then you are out into the general airport.
Maybe he tried to get into an area where he didn't belong.?????

The Customs boys never did have much of a sense of humor, and it ain't gotten a damn bit better since 9 / 11.

The signs mean what they say, and don't even THINK about making a joke.

 bluewolf, hope things work out for your friend.
 On the side note, Custom officer can check any luggages coming in to the country, and it doesn't matter if they were checked out at the other country.