State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat on Thursday dismissed social media allegations that luggage belonging to returning Hajj pilgrims had been slashed and looted at the country's main international airport, saying an investigation found no evidence of theft or mishandling.

He told a press briefing in Dhaka that officials launched an inquiry immediately after claims circulated online following the arrival of a Hajj flight at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.

"Airport body camera footage was reviewed, and the investigation report was submitted to me within hours," Millat said, adding that CCTV recordings showed no indication of luggage theft or improper handling by airport personnel.

The controversy emerged after reports on social media alleged that bags belonging to pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia had been cut open and valuables removed.

Millat said passengers had verbally informed ground staff that 21 of the 836 bags on the flight were found torn or cut. However, he explained that under international aviation regulations, passengers are prohibited from carrying Zamzam water or improperly sealed toiletries in checked baggage.

He said that when screening detects such items, airport authorities must cut open or unseal the bags and confiscate them. Carrying undeclared cash or wallets in checked baggage is also banned under international rules.

He urged media outlets and social media users to verify information before publication, while acknowledging the role of public scrutiny in ensuring accountability. 

"Criticism is welcome, but it must be constructive," the minister said.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism said Civil Aviation Minister Afroza Khanam, who is currently abroad, had contacted airport officials by telephone to monitor the situation and thanked those involved for their prompt response.