Homeland Security Nabs Dangerous Afghan Stowaway

Homeland security officials in Philadelphia say they've intercepted a destructive insect species that hitched a ride to the US aboard a military plane. Agriculture specialists with Customs and Border Protection found noctuid moths among equipment returning from Afghanistan. These particular moths are severe pests that feast on fruit and vegetable crops.

They were found May 24 aboard a plane that landed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey. The cargo was quarantined, and the plane decontaminated. Homeland Security officials say it's the first documented interception in the area and fourth national interception of this insect. (More Homeland Security stories.)