State Minister rejects allegations of theft from 150 Hajj baggage

Bangladesh State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat has dismissed allegations circulating on social media that valuables were stolen from 150 Hajj pilgrims’ luggage, calling the claims “false and misleading.”

Speaking at a briefing held at the Information Department conference room in the Secretariat, the minister said an immediate investigation was launched after the allegations surfaced online and were reportedly tagged to the Prime Minister on Thursday morning.

He said authorities reviewed CCTV footage and body-worn camera recordings from the airport and found no evidence of mishandling or theft.

According to him, out of 836 pieces of baggage from the concerned flight, 21 bags were found torn or cut, based on verbal reports from ground staff. He added that such incidents are sometimes linked to security screening procedures, including inspection of liquids or prohibited items.

The minister explained that passengers are not allowed to carry unsealed liquids, including Zamzam water or certain cosmetics, in checked luggage, and such items may be opened or confiscated during scanning if found in violation of rules. He also noted that undeclared cash or valuables are prohibited in checked baggage under international aviation regulations.

He further stated that the viral social media claims were “misleading,” and reiterated that no evidence of theft or baggage tampering was found during the investigation conducted by Biman Bangladesh Airlines.

The ministry urged the public to verify information before sharing, warning that unverified online posts can create unnecessary confusion among passengers and the public.