16 Bangladeshi Expats Killed in Saudi Arabia Factory Fire
DHAKA — At least 16 Bangladeshi expatriates were killed after a fire erupted at a sofa manufacturing factory in Riyadh on Sunday, August 9, the Bangladeshi Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed.
The blaze occurred in the Musa Sanaia industrial area of the Saudi capital. Embassy officials rushed to the site and began collecting information shortly after the incident. The mission confirmed it is working closely with relevant Saudi authorities to complete all formalities and repatriate the bodies to Bangladesh with the families’ consent.
Authorities are currently working on identifying the victims. The ministry said the foreign minister and foreign secretary have expressed deep condolences and sympathy to the families of the deceased.
Around seven million Bangladeshis work overseas, with the majority in the Middle East. Reports estimate that over three million Bangladeshi nationals reside in Saudi Arabia. Dhaka’s Expatriates’ Welfare Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury said there has been “constant communication” with local authorities and that officials have been instructed to ensure speedy repatriation and secure all necessary government assistance and compensation for the families.
The incident follows a deadly bus crash in November last year that killed 45 Indian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
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