NASSAU, Bahamas (CMC) — Bahamian civil aviation authorities Monday warned passengers that they risk causing a “catastrophic incident” if they seek to evade a ban on traveling with the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 mobile phone by placing it in their checked luggage.

Several countries have banned passengers from having the phones in their possession when boarding flights over concerns of the phone’s fire-prone batteries.

In a statement, the Department of Civil Aviation said it has instituted a ban on air travel in The Bahamas on all Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphone devices, effective Monday October 17.

“As a result of the ban, these devices may not be transported by passengers or crew on their person, in carry-on baggage, or in checked baggage on flights to, from, or within the Commonwealth Of The Bahamas. The phones also cannot be shipped as air cargo.

“The banning of these phones from airlines will inconvenience some passengers; however the safety of all passengers is paramount,” the department said.

It said if passengers attempt to travel by air with their Samsung Galaxy Note7 devices, they will be denied boarding.

“Passengers who attempt to evade the ban by packing their phone in checked luggage are increasing the risk of a catastrophic incident. Anyone violating the ban may be subject to criminal prosecution, in addition to fines.”

The Department of Civil Aviation said that passengers currently traveling with Samsung Galaxy Note7 phones should contact Samsung or their wireless carrier immediately to obtain information about how to return their phones and arrange for a refund or a replacement phone.