A total of 174 Bangladeshi nationals returned home from Libya early on Wednesday under a voluntary repatriation programme coordinated by the Bangladeshi government, the International Organization for Migration and Libyan authorities.
According to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the returnees arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport aboard a Buraq Air flight at approximately 5:00 am.
Officials said the operation was conducted through joint coordination involving the Bangladeshi Embassy in Libya, the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, Libyan authorities and the International Organization for Migration.
Most of the migrants had reportedly entered Libya through irregular routes after being deceived by human trafficking networks promising passage to Europe through Mediterranean sea crossings. Many later became victims of kidnapping, torture and exploitation during their stay in Libya, according to officials involved in the repatriation effort.
Representatives from the Bangladeshi government and the International Organization for Migration received the migrants upon arrival and provided immediate humanitarian assistance. Support packages included food aid, medical care, temporary accommodation and financial assistance for onward travel.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged the returnees to share their experiences publicly to raise awareness about the dangers of irregular migration and human trafficking operations targeting vulnerable individuals seeking work abroad.
Libya remains a major transit hub for migrants attempting to reach Europe, despite ongoing security concerns and repeated warnings from international organisations regarding the risks associated with illegal migration routes.
Authorities linked to both the Government of National Unity, led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbaiba, and eastern-based forces aligned with commander Khalifa Haftar have repeatedly pledged to combat human trafficking and improve migrant detention conditions.
Officials confirmed that further joint efforts are underway to secure the safe return of additional Bangladeshi nationals currently held in detention centres across Libya.
