Probe Finds No Evidence of Theft from Hajj Pilgrims’ Luggage at Dhaka Airport

A probe conducted by Biman Bangladesh Airlines has found no evidence supporting allegations that belongings were stolen from the luggage of 150 Hajj pilgrims on a recent Hajj flight at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.

The investigation reviewed CCTV footage, body-worn camera recordings, regulations of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and directives issued by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). The findings were outlined in a report released on Wednesday.

The report was signed by Shah Noor Ahmad, General Manager of Biman’s Airport Services Division.

According to the report, Biman’s special Hajj flight BG-3104 arrived in Dhaka from Jeddah on June 2 carrying 419 pilgrims. Subsequently, a post circulated on social media claiming that the luggage of approximately 150 passengers on the flight had been cut open and valuables stolen.

Following the allegation, the national flag carrier immediately launched an internal investigation, taking into account the reputational implications for both the airline and the airport.

The investigation found that the aircraft landed at 2:52 AM and that the first bag was delivered to passengers within just 13 minutes. A total of 836 pieces of luggage were distributed by 3:51 AM, with the entire process conducted under security supervision.

Analysis of body-worn camera footage from ground handling personnel and CCTV recordings revealed that approximately 21 bags had already been damaged before arrival. However, investigators found no evidence that any luggage had been cut open or tampered with in Dhaka.

The report further noted that, contrary to claims circulating on social media, only five to six passengers verbally reported receiving torn or damaged luggage. According to the passengers, the affected bags contained Zamzam water, shampoo, lotion, and dates.

No passenger submitted a written complaint regarding the loss of valuables. Although one passenger verbally mentioned a missing wallet, no formal complaint was filed.

Biman stated that, under Saudi regulations, carrying Zamzam water or improperly sealed liquid cosmetics inside checked baggage is prohibited. During security screening, if such items are detected, authorities may open or cut luggage and confiscate the prohibited materials in accordance with established procedures.

The airline also noted that international aviation regulations discourage passengers from placing cash or wallets in checked baggage.

The report concluded that a comprehensive review of CCTV footage, body-worn camera recordings, IATA regulations, and directives from Saudi authorities found no evidence of luggage tampering, theft, or mishandling involving passengers on the flight.

Commenting on the findings, SM Ragib Samad said that CCTV footage showed no indication of unlawful interference during the baggage handling process after the luggage was unloaded from the aircraft. He added that some bags were likely damaged or cut open in Jeddah before arriving in Dhaka.

/DBTech/SNN/EK/OR/