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U.S. warns of possible toothpaste tube threat to flights to Russia ahead of Olympic games

The Homeland Security logo is seen August 26, 2011. PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP/Getty Images

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Homeland Security Department is warning airlines flying to Russia that terrorists may try to smuggle explosives on board hidden in toothpaste tubes.

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The threat is to airlines that have direct flights to Russia, including some that originate in the United States, says a law enforcement official speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss details of the warning.

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The department said in a statement that the U.S. “isn’t aware of a specific threat to the homeland at this time.”

The statement notes the department – quote – “regularly shares information with domestic and international partners, including those associated with international events such as the Sochi Olympics.”

READ MORE: Suicide bombers called biggest Sochi Olympics risk

The warning comes on the eve of the Winter Olympics.

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