U.S. Postal Inspection Service explains how to identify a suspicious package

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service said its working closely with law enforcement on the investigation into suspicious devices sent to CNN and top political figures including the Obamas, the Clintons, George Sorros, Eric Holder and Maxine Waters.

ABC 17 News contacted The U.S. Postal Inspection Service for a statement, but it said it could not comment on its investigative procedures or protocol.

The agency said a mail bomb is rare and that postal inspectors have investigated an average of 16 mail bombs over the last few years.

According to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, mail bombs may have excessive postage because the suspect does not typically mail a parcel over the counter. The agency also said the return address may be nonexistent and postmark may show a different location than the return address. Mail bombs may also have protruding wires, aluminum foil, oil stains, or emit an odor.

Postal inspectors recommended the following for anyone who receives a suspicious package:

Don’t try to open it Isolate mail with suspicious leaks Cordon off the area Call the Postal Inspection Service at 1-877-876-2455