State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has said the government would ensure exemplary punishment for the human traffickers responsible for death of Bangladeshis while attempting a perilous Mediterranean crossing via Libya.
“The long-term solution is to stop this inhumane act. Human traffickers must be punished under both domestic and international laws,” said minister while speaking to reporters at the ministry on Sunday afternoon.
In the latest incident, at least 18 Bangladeshis died alongside citizens of several countries while trying to reach Greece through an illegal and risky sea route from Libya, officials said.
Describing the incident as tragic and unacceptable, she said trafficking networks, reportedly involving operatives from multiple countries, lure migrants with false promises of reaching Europe but expose them to life-threatening journeys.
Bangladesh missions abroad are maintaining constant communication with relevant authorities, particularly in Greece, to gather detailed information about victims and survivors, she said.
“Our missions are working round the clock. The Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment is also engaged to extend necessary support for those rescued,” she added.
Survivors have been taken to hospitals and camps, where authorities are verifying their identities and completing formalities before repatriation, officials said.
Identifying those responsible for the trafficking network is a priority, and all perpetrators regardless of nationality must be brought under legal accountability, she said.
She also highlighted the inhumane conditions endured by migrants, who reportedly spent six to seven days at sea without adequate food and water, leading to multiple deaths.
Calling for stronger global action, she said such criminal networks must be dismantled to prevent further loss of lives, describing the practice as “a grave violation of human dignity.”
Officials said efforts are underway through Bangladesh missions in Greece and Libya to coordinate rescue, identification and eventual repatriation of affected nationals.
