In this case it sound like rough handling and a rough road. It's case literally shook apart in transit.

As for what it was use for, it was probably a calibration sample for a piece of detection equipment. An known quantity to ensure the device is reading properly.

As for how dangerous, the worry is more only if it is kept near someone for a prolonged period of time. Especially if it is kept on their person. So they are more worried that someone will for some reason keep it.