Aviation minister warns of tough action over negligence at Dhaka airport
Asked about allegations of luggage theft at the airport, the minister said he believes such incidents were no longer taking place.
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has warned that strict action will be taken against anyone found negligent in carrying out their duties at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
Responding to a question while speaking to reporters after inspecting the Airport Fire Emergency Exercise 2026 at the airport today (5 October), Millat said passengers' lives and safety depend on the preparedness and efficiency of the agencies responsible for dealing with emergencies.
"The government is working with the highest priority to ensure overall security at the airport. Efforts are under way to improve the situation that has persisted for a long time," he said.
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He added, "The government is determined to improve the situation. We need time to resolve these issues, whatever it takes, because this trend has been continuing for a long time."
He also said that many were recruited through political patronage and are unable to perform their duties properly.
Asked about allegations of luggage theft at the airport, the minister said he believes such incidents were no longer taking place.
"I do not think this is happening now. If one or two incidents occurred in the past, we will address them," he added.
Asked about gold smuggling through the airport and the arrest of airline employees in connection with such cases, Millat said the government's tighter security measures are making it increasingly difficult for smugglers to operate.
"Now, those involved in gold smuggling have no way of avoiding detection. We are catching them through strict security measures and bringing them under the law," he said.
