161 Bangladeshi Migrants Repatriated from Libya, Tunisia

Among the returnees, 143 arrived from Libya aboard a chartered Buraq Air flight (UZ 0222), which touched down at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) at 6:15 AM today. Earlier, 18 migrants returned from Tunisia on Turkish Airlines flight TK 712, which landed at HSIA at 5:25 AM.

Upon arrival, the repatriated migrants were warmly received by officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and IOM.

Many of the returnees had entered Libya and Tunisia irregularly, hoping to make their way to Europe by sea, often with the assistance of human traffickers. Along the way, many faced significant hardships, including abduction, exploitation, and abuse, particularly in Libya, according to a statement from the Foreign Ministry.

In a message to the returnees, officials urged them to share their experiences with their communities, raising awareness about the dangers of illegal migration, especially the perilous journey to Europe through Libya.

As part of the repatriation, IOM provided each migrant with financial support: Taka 5,450 for those coming from Tunisia and Taka 6,000 for those from Libya. In addition, the IOM offered food, medical care, and temporary accommodation to those in need.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with the Bangladesh mission in Tripoli and IOM, continues to work tirelessly to ensure the safe return of Bangladeshi nationals held in detention centers across Libya.