Staff Reporter:
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has said the government would ensure ex-emplary punishment for the human traffickers responsible for death of Bangladeshis while at-tempting 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,” she told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs this afternoon.
In the latest incident at least 18 Bangladeshis died among citizens of several countries when they were trying to reach Greece through an illegal and risky sea route from Libya, officials said.
Describing the incident as tragic and unacceptable, the State Minister said trafficking networks, reportedly involving operatives from multiple countries, lure migrants with false promises to reach them to Europe, but expose them with life-threatening journeys.
Shama Obaed said Bangladesh missions abroad are maintaining constant communication with the relevant authorities, particularly in Greece, to gather detailed information about the victims and survivors.
“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.
According to officials, survivors have been taken to hospitals and camps, where authorities are ver-ifying their identities and processing necessary formalities before repatriation.
