Scam in BangladeshAirport and border
Airport 'domestic terminal closed' bribe demand in Bangladesh
How it works
An airport official tells a transferring passenger that the domestic terminal is closed. They make the passenger sit down, then try to demand a bribe.
Warning signs
- An official at the scanning station says the domestic terminal is closed.
- You are told to sit and wait, followed by a demand for money.
How to avoid it
- Do not pay a bribe to continue to the domestic terminal.
- If this happens at the described station, get up, walk out of the doors and turn right towards the domestic terminal.
- If the person follows you, firmly and loudly tell them to leave you alone.
If it happens to you
Continue towards the domestic terminal if safe. Draw attention to persistent harassment and seek help from other airport staff.
- Move to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or continue an argument that feels threatening.
- Call 999 for an emergency involving police, fire or an ambulance. Seek urgent medical help if you suspect drugging.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, agreed price and vehicle licence plate if known. Save receipts and screenshots.
- Freeze missing payment cards and contact your card issuer. Secure accounts on a stolen phone when possible.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a report or reference number and keep a copy.
- Contact your insurer and, if your passport is missing or you need consular help, your embassy or consulate.
Questions
What is the airport 'domestic terminal closed' bribe demand scam in Bangladesh?
An airport official tells a transferring passenger that the domestic terminal is closed. They make the passenger sit down, then try to demand a bribe.
How can I spot it early?
An official at the scanning station says the domestic terminal is closed. You are told to sit and wait, followed by a demand for money.
How do I avoid airport 'domestic terminal closed' bribe demand in Bangladesh?
Do not pay a bribe to continue to the domestic terminal. If this happens at the described station, get up, walk out of the doors and turn right towards the domestic terminal. If the person follows you, firmly and loudly tell them to leave you alone.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Continue towards the domestic terminal if safe. Draw attention to persistent harassment and seek help from other airport staff.
Where in Bangladesh does this happen?
The scanning station before the domestic terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. It has been reported in Dhaka.
How common is this scam in Bangladesh?
Occasional. Transport overcharging is a key scam risk in Bangladesh, especially in Chittagong. Other problems include small tourist markups, airport bribe demands, pickpocketing and bag theft. Most people are friendly, but take extra care with strangers' offers and late-night transport.
Who can I report it to?
Police, fire or ambulance: dial 999 from a Bangladeshi mobile phone number or landline for an emergency. Local police: report theft, threats, extortion or fraud. Provide the location, time, description and any receipts or vehicle details. Ask for a report or reference number. Khulna Metropolitan Police Control Room: the listed local number is 20220. For an emergency, use 999. Card issuer or bank: use the official app or published contact number to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular assistance. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and other evidence.
What number do I call in an emergency in Bangladesh?
Police, fire and ambulance: 999.
Reviewed by @snuck