DHAKA, Bangladesh – Dozens of Bangladeshi migrant workers arriving home from Saudi Arabia had their luggage stolen during a layover at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport in Ethiopia, sparking anger and calls for inquiry. The theft, discovered upon arrival at Dhaka’s Shah Jalal International Airport late Tuesday, reportedly affected 78 workers who had been employed in Saudi Arabia. Authorities at both airports are reportedly reviewing security footage as the laborers face meaningful financial hardship from the loss of their possessions.
Dozens of Bangladeshi workers returning home from Saudi Arabia discovered their luggage had been stolen during a layover in Ethiopia, according to video footage circulating online. The incident at Shah Jalal International Airport in Dhaka has sparked outrage and distress among the laborers.
Seventy-eight workers had been employed in Saudi Arabia and were traveling back to Bangladesh when the theft occurred while their plane was on the ground in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Workers reported that their bags were broken into and most of their belongings were missing.
Video footage shows the workers arriving at the baggage claim area and discovering their damaged luggage. Locks were broken, and bags were open, revealing the theft.
The footage also captures the workers’ immediate reaction – a mix of anger and despair. Some workers were seen weeping after realizing they had lost possessions accumulated over years of working abroad.
The flight originated in Saudi Arabia, stopped in Ethiopia for a layover, and then continued to Bangladesh. The workers confirmed the theft took place during the stopover in Addis Ababa.
The loss of their belongings represents a significant financial blow to the workers, many of whom rely on their savings to support their families. The incident underscores the vulnerability of migrant workers to theft and the emotional toll such crimes can take.
