Bangladeshi nationals executed in Saudi Arabia: Dhaka, family seek answers
Bangladesh says it learnt of the October 14 executions through media reports, as authorities seek an explanation from Riyadh
The execution of two Bangladeshi nationals in Saudi Arabia over alleged "immoral acts" inside a mosque in Mecca has resulted in questions being raised in Bangladesh over their trial and whether Dhaka was informed before their deaths. The Saudi government is yet to make any official statement on what the two did or provide details of the proceedings.
No publicly disclosed details
The executions took place on October 14, according to Saudi media reports citing the Interior Ministry. The two were identified as Nazrul Islam Abdul Basir and Siti Akhtar. Reports did not specify the alleged acts.
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Saudi authorities have not disclosed when the pair were arrested or how their cases were heard. Prothom Alo reported that Nazrul's family disputed claims that the two were a couple. His father, Abdul Basir, told Jago News, "We do not even know her. I heard they worked at the same place."
His family told Prothom Alo that police arrested him eight months later and that he remained in custody until his execution.
Family says it received no warning before execution
Relatives last spoke to him on October 11. Three days later, they received a call informing them of his death.
The family said it received no prior notice. Abdul Basir, who worked in Saudi Arabia for 24 years, told The Daily Star, "If my son was executed without just cause, I want justice."
Bangladesh consulate list did not mention death sentences
The Daily Star reported that Bangladesh's consulate general in Jeddah received a list of imprisoned citizens in September that included both names. Their alleged offences were recorded as "adultery" and "ICT", but the list did not mention their death sentences.
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Bangladesh's State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam told reporters on Saturday (October 17) that Dhaka learnt of the executions through media reports. The government has sought an explanation from Saudi Arabia's ambassador, Abdullah Zafer H bin Abiyah, stated the report adding that the Foreign Ministry had also sent a note verbale seeking formal acknowledgement.
Dhaka seeks explanation from Saudi Arabia
State Minister Humaiun Kobir called the executions "very disappointing", The Daily Star reported on Sunday (October 18).
"So why was there a gap in the exchange of information? We have sought an explanation from Saudi Arabia," he said, adding that Dhaka expected Riyadh to notify it when Bangladeshi citizens were detained.