Eight Bangladeshi migrant workers die in Maldives within 10 days

At least eight Bangladeshi nationals have died in the Maldives over the past 10 days due to suicide, workplace accidents, stroke and heart-related complications, according to the Bangladesh High Commission in Malé.

The deaths, most involving migrant workers aged between 21 and 45, have sparked concern within the Bangladeshi expatriate community over the physical and mental well-being of workers in the island nation.

Members of the Bangladeshi community in the Maldives said many migrant workers face prolonged separation from their families, financial hardship and intense psychological stress, factors they believe are contributing to a growing number of health-related emergencies, including stroke and cardiac illness.

According to the High Commission, 23-year-old Robiul Islam Rowshan from Gaibandha was killed in a workplace accident on July 25. Humayun Kabir, 45, from Brahmanbaria died of a stroke on July 27, while Sheikh Farid, 45, of Feni died on July 30 after suffering a stroke linked to diabetes complications. Mokbul Mia, 47, from Cumilla also died of a stroke on July 28.

On August 1, 21-year-old Solaiman Matabbar from Madaripur died while undergoing treatment after accidentally consuming turpentine at his workplace. On the same day, Sayed Molla, 44, from Shariatpur died of a stroke at his residence, while Badiur Rahman, 37, from Faridpur was found dead after allegedly taking his own life. Maldivian authorities are investigating the incident.

The latest fatality occurred on August 3, when Delwara Nabi, 70, died of a heart attack. She was the wife of Dr. Nabi, an anaesthesiologist at Maldives' Tree Top Hospital.

The Bangladesh High Commission said it is coordinating with the Maldivian authorities to facilitate the repatriation of the deceased. The bodies of Humayun Kabir and Sayed Molla have already been sent to Bangladesh, while arrangements are underway to return the remains of the others based on requests from their families.

The recent deaths have renewed calls for stronger welfare support and mental health assistance for Bangladeshi migrant workers living abroad.