Nineteen days have passed since a boat carrying 35 young men from Habiganj went missing while attempting to reach Italy via Libya. Families of the missing are living in deep anxiety.
The youths reportedly departed on October 1 from Tripoli, Libya, through a boat arranged by Hasan Ashraf, also known as Samayun Molla, a known local agent from West Bhag, Azmiriganj. The missing include young men from Baniachang, Azmiriganj, and other areas of the district. Each reportedly paid between BDT 1.7 to 2 million for the journey.
Families are desperate for news. Abdul Wahed, father of missing youth Sabbir, said, “I want to see my son alive. I urge authorities to take action to rescue him.”
Despite the disappearance of these 35 youths, the human trafficking syndicate remains active. Locals allege that risky boats are used for those who pay less, while others who pay more are delivered safely to Italy.
Azmiriganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer Nibir Ranjan Talukdar said, “We will take appropriate action if families file written complaints.”
