Crossword Genius

Mascot Airport confines clothing smuggler (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

amulet

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'mascot' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'airport confines clothing smuggler' is the wordplay.
'airport confines' becomes 'at' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'clothing' is an insertion indicator (some letters cover up or clothe others).
'smuggler' becomes 'mule' (as in a drugs mule).
'at' going around 'mule' is 'AMULET'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for amulet that I've seen before include "Thing worn as charm against evil" , "Jewel to protect from witchcraft" , "Charm warding off evil" , "Magical charm" , "Charm, lucky token" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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