FALSE FLAG TEST
IMHO, the key in the report is the VIPR team.
Most TSA inspection points are premised upon the volition of the public to allow themselves in the TSA inspection area and submit to screening. Granted, nobody is allowed on the aircraft without being screened. Nevertheless, it is feasible to simply turn around and walk away, not submitting to the inspection.
Meanwhile, if TSA inspectors / screeners encounter contraband, they afford the owner the opportunity to dispose of it on their own. They can throw it in a trash barrel, walk back out of line and do whatever they want with it, but only illegal activity such as carrying a concealed weapon without a permit or attempting to bring a bomb on board, results in the screening process being halted. They then call 911 or local law enforcement to handle the situation.
The VIPR team running through the terminal and searching people who are not in their search box, steps further out of the box of their legitimate authority.