158 Bangladeshis detained in the Tajoura detention center in Tripoli flew back to Bangladesh, arriving early on Tuesday in Dhaka. Photo: Bangladeshi Embassy in Libya

DHAKA, June 18, 2025 (BSS) - A total of 158 undocumented Bangladeshis, who had been detained at the Tajoura Detention Centre in Libya, were repatriated to Bangladesh on Tuesday.

A chartered Buraq Air flight-UZ 0222 carrying the nationals landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, according to a media release sent from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The repatriation was jointly coordinated by the ministry, the Bangladesh Embassy to Libya, the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Most returnees had illegally entered Libya with the intention of reaching Europe by sea, often falling victim to abduction and abuse by human traffickers, said the release.  

At the Dhaka airport, representatives from the government and IOM welcomed the returnees. Each received Taka 6,000, food supplies, initial medical care and temporary shelter if needed.

Officials urged the migrants and the public to remain cautious and avoid such dangerous journeys.

Efforts continue to ensure safe repatriation of Bangladeshis detained in Libya.