Govt to cooperate with Malaysia in probe into 36 arrested Bangladeshis

The government of Bangladesh has vowed to full cooperation with Malaysian authorities in the investigation of 36 Bangladeshi nationals arrested on allegations of involvement with the militant group Islamic State (IS).

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs made the announcement in a press release on Saturday (July 5), reaffirming Bangladesh's firm stance against terrorism, extremism, and militancy.

According to the statement, the arrests took place during a recent security operation in Malaysia. Following the incident, the Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur formally contacted Malaysian authorities to obtain the identities of the detainees and the specific charges brought against them.

The Foreign Ministry confirmed that five of the arrested individuals have already been charged in Malaysian courts. Legal proceedings are ongoing for the rest, with some facing possible deportation to Bangladesh. The High Commission is closely monitoring the situation and is in regular communication with Malaysian officials, assuring assistance for Bangladeshi expatriates if needed.

Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail earlier revealed that the arrested Bangladeshis were working in the construction, service, and factory sectors. Authorities claim the suspects sent money to IS operatives in Syria and Bangladesh and were actively spreading extremist ideology through social media and messaging apps. They also allegedly attempted to recruit other Bangladeshi workers into the militant network.

Malaysian police believe the network could involve between 100 to 150 individuals. So far, five have been charged, 15 are set for deportation, and 16 remain in custody pending further investigation.

In Bangladesh, Expatriate Welfare Adviser Asif Nazrul confirmed that three of the deported individuals have already arrived and are being interrogated. He stated, "Those who return will also be questioned. If evidence of militant activity is found, they will be brought to justice."