At least 22 migrants died while attempting to reach Greece from Libya in an overcrowded boat drifting in the Mediterranean Sea.
Twenty-six people were rescued, including 21 Bangladeshis. Preliminary reports indicate that at least 10 of the deceased are from Sunamganj.
Survivors said the deaths were caused by lack of food and water during the prolonged journey. The boat remained at sea longer than planned and was inadequately supplied.
During a briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said the Bangladesh Embassy in Greece is in contact with the survivors to verify their identities and assess their condition. The injured have been admitted to hospitals, while others are being accommodated in a camp.
The minister noted that women and children were among the passengers, heightening the humanitarian concern. “This shows that human traffickers push people into life-threatening journeys without regard for safety,” he said.
Shama Obaed Islam stressed the importance of accurately identifying all survivors, as errors could complicate their repatriation. Their return to Bangladesh will be conducted in phases, involving identity verification, compliance with Greek administrative procedures, and assessment of their physical and legal status.
She also confirmed that the tragedy involves a coordinated international human trafficking network operating in both Bangladesh and Libya.
“Traffickers lure ordinary people with promises of a better life, collect large sums of money, and then put them in extreme danger,” she said.
The minister directed relevant ministries and law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute the traffickers under both international and domestic law.
“The Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and other agencies have already begun investigating this incident,” she added.
“Beyond prosecuting this case, long-term measures must be taken to prevent human trafficking. Such tragedies are unacceptable in any civilized society, and permanent solutions are urgently needed.”
