State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam has stated that approximately 7,500 expatriate Bangladeshis are currently imprisoned in various prisons across Saudi Arabia. The Saudi authorities have informed Bangladesh that these individuals are serving sentences after being convicted of various charges and offenses.
The State Minister shared this information while responding to journalists' questions on Friday, following the repatriation of the body of Shahed Ahmed, a Bangladeshi who died in Saudi Arabia. She noted that Saudi Arabia sends lists of imprisoned Bangladeshis from time to time, but the government of Bangladesh has not yet received detailed information regarding the recent execution of two Bangladeshis in Mecca.
On October 14, Saudi authorities reported the execution of two Bangladeshi nationals, identified as Nazrul Islam and Sweety Akhter. Reports stated that they were beheaded at a mosque in Mecca on charges of 'immoral activities.' However, the State Minister stated that Bangladesh was not informed about the matter prior to the execution.
Shama Obaid said that an official letter has been sent to the Saudi government in the wake of this incident, requesting a copy of the verdict and detailed information. The matter was also discussed by summoning the Saudi ambassador in Dhaka. The full details of the incident will be known once a copy of the verdict is received.
She mentioned that while every country has its own judicial system, if a foreign national is convicted or faces capital punishment, the respective country needs to be informed. The government is working diplomatically to prevent such incidents in the future.
The State Minister also questioned the role of past governments regarding the execution of the two Bangladeshis. According to her, the incident occurred in 2023 when the Awami League government was in power, followed by the tenure of the interim government. After assuming office, the current government learned about the matter and is taking steps to ensure the protection of Bangladeshis.
Shama Obaid urged expatriates facing any problems or requiring services to contact the relevant embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She added that action will be taken if any negligence is found on the part of the embassy.
Additionally, the State Minister stated that the government is working to extend the visa validity of expatriates who became stranded in Bangladesh due to conflicts in the Middle East, as well as on the rehabilitation or employment of those who lost their jobs.
