23 Bodies Found on Libya's Shores, Likely Bangladeshis

Bangladesh's Ambassador to Libya, Abul Hasnat Mohammad Khairul Bashar, confirmed that 23 bodies, thought to be of Bangladeshis, were found washed up on Libya's shores. Citing the Red Crescent and local authorities, the ambassador said the bodies lacked identification, making it difficult to definitively confirm their nationality. However, those involved in the burial process noted that the bodies appeared to be of Bangladeshis.

The bodies are believed to be linked to a group of 56 migrants who left Libya's shores on January 25. The ambassador speculated that the boat may have capsized that same night. The bodies washed ashore in stages: seven on January 28, 11 on January 29, two on January 30, and three more on January 31. The bodies were buried in Ajdabiya due to decomposition.

Two survivors, found in critical condition, were reportedly placed in intensive care, though their location remains unknown. The whereabouts of the remaining missing individuals are also unclear. The ambassador has sought permission to visit the area for further investigation but has not yet received approval.

Since assuming his post in June 2023, the ambassador has helped repatriate over 4,200 Bangladeshis detained or living under harsh conditions in Libya, with assistance from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). He emphasized the importance of discouraging illegal migration to Libya and urged Bangladeshis to avoid falling prey to human traffickers.