rki.news | Sources Anadolu
RIYADH, Aug. 10 — At least 16 Bangladeshi migrant workers were killed Sunday when a fire broke out at a sofa factory in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, according to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment.
Ten of the victims were from Naogaon district, while others belonged to Natore and Rajshahi districts, the ministry said.
Expatriates’ Welfare Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and said the workers had lost their lives while working abroad to support their families and contribute to Bangladesh’s economy.
The Bangladesh Embassy in Riyadh is maintaining contact with Saudi authorities and officials at the scene. Authorities are working to identify the victims, complete necessary formalities and arrange the repatriation of their remains.
The Foreign Ministry said it is closely monitoring the situation and providing assistance.
Saudi Arabia is the largest destination for Bangladeshi migrant workers, with about 3.5 million Bangladeshis living and working in the Kingdom.
Bangladeshi workers sent more than $2.7 billion in remittances last year, with many employed in low-skilled jobs.