For decades, when baggage handlers target specific bags for theft, the simplest way of sweeping their trail is to misdirect the bag.

Glad to hear the bag was located and nothing was stolen.

Any major airport has miles of space where things go on behind the scenes. At least at DIA, bags with declared firearms are searched by TSA in one room and if the bag has to be opened, the owner can stand in the doorway and watch the bag search. Most checked bags at DIA are never opened by TSA. Anyone who has traveled from DIA with a declared firearm in their bag is welcome to add or dispute this by sharing their personal experience. I only wished things were done like that at every US airport.

Be safe.