[MattAMiller]

How exactly does one manage to address immigration issues whilst being paranoid about metal detectors, refusing to take a number so one can be served, not speaking and hovering by a window? LOL!

I don't know about this standing near the window business. But I can see why a young Arab male wouldn't want to give any reason to stop them at a metal detector.

I'm not sure how not taking a number would fit into a terror scenario though. Seems like you'd just want to blend in. Maybe he'd schedualed an appointment and didn't need a number.

It's very suspicious obviously. But I'm not sure what exactly to make of it.

[Pagey]

bttt

[Sacajaweau]

Mabe the numbers are time-clock marked OR within the view of a security camera.

[InShanghai]

If you've ever been to immigration to deal with the bureaucratic, red tape, slow moving, federal immigration officers, you could understand.

I've had to stand in line at 7:00AM when they open their doors at 9:00AM. Upon getting to the metal detector (and prior to 9-11), I'm told that the on key-chain pocket knife I have to cut my fingernails is considered a leathal weapon and it will either be confinscated or I'll have to put it in my car, parked eight blocks away. No way would it be returned. I can understand why someone would suggest not to take any metal because if they opt to return it to their car, they'll have to stay in line another 2-3 hours, JUST TO GET IN THE DOOR.

If you take a number, it means you're there without an appointment. If you have an appointment, you're usually directed to wait near a door or window where someone (another slow moving immigration worker) will check your appointment status.

I'm certainly not saying this guy is not suspicious, however he could just as well be trying to avoid getting into trouble. In any case, this will be interesting to follow. I hope I'm not wrong.