UK sanctions Bangladeshi travel company over alleged human trafficking to Russia

The United Kingdom has imposed sanctions on a Bangladeshi travel company over allegations of involvement in human trafficking linked to Russia and the war in Ukraine.

The announcement was made by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and published on the British government’s official website on Tuesday (5 May).

The sanctions were issued under the UK’s Global Irregular Migration and Human Trafficking Sanctions Regulations 2025. According to the UK government, the action is part of efforts to disrupt networks involved in migrant exploitation and trafficking.

The sanctioned entity has been identified as Dream Home Travels and Tours Limited, based in Banani, Dhaka. The measures include asset freezes and restrictions.

Allegations by UK Government

The UK government stated that there are reasonable grounds to suspect the company was involved in human trafficking-related activities.

According to the sanctions notice, the company allegedly recruited Bangladeshi citizens through fraudulent job offers, promising high-paying employment in Russia’s service sector.

However, once the individuals arrived in Russia, they were reportedly subjected to exploitation and forced to participate in Russia’s military operations in the ongoing war against Ukraine.

The sanctions list includes a total of 17 individuals and entities from multiple countries, with the Bangladeshi company listed among them.

No immediate official response from the company has been reported regarding the allegations.