309 undocumented Bangladeshis repatriated from Libya

A total of  309 Bangladeshi nationals, who had been staying irregularly in Libya, were repatriated to Bangladesh on Friday via a special chartered flight arranged in coordination with the Government of Libya, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the Bangladesh Embassy in Tripoli.

The returnees arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport around 9:00 AM on a Fly Oya International chartered flight, facilitated jointly by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, and the IOM, according to a press release.

Most of the returnees had entered Libya illegally through human traffickers, enticed by false promises of migration to Europe via the Mediterranean. Many subsequently endured abduction, torture, and inhumane treatment by trafficking networks and armed groups.

Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, and the IOM were present at the airport to receive and assist the returnees. Each returnee received travel allowances, food supplies, and basic medical care from the IOM upon arrival.

The returnees were encouraged to share their experiences to raise public awareness about the risks of irregular migration and human trafficking.

The government reaffirmed its commitment, alongside the Bangladesh Embassy in Libya, the IOM, and international partners, to ensure the safe repatriation of Bangladeshi nationals detained in Libyan centers. Officials also emphasized ongoing coordination with Libyan authorities to prevent further trafficking and provide safe, legal avenues for overseas employment.

HKJ