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Bangladesh has pledged full cooperation with Malaysian authorities in the investigation of 36 Bangladeshi citizens detained in Malaysia over alleged links to the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group. The stance was announced in a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, reaffirming Bangladesh’s firm position against terrorism, violent extremism, and militancy.
Last week, Malaysian authorities arrested 36 Bangladeshis in a security operation on suspicion of involvement in a militant extremist movement. The Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur promptly contacted Malaysian authorities, formally requesting information about the detainees’ identities and allegations.
Five of the detainees have faced formal charges in Malaysian courts, while investigations continue for the others, some of whom may be repatriated to Bangladesh. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the Bangladesh High Commission is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining regular contact with Malaysian authorities to provide necessary assistance to the detainees.
Malaysian police reported that the detainees, employed in factories, construction, and service sectors, allegedly sent funds to IS in Syria and Bangladesh, recruited members, and spread extremist ideologies via social media and messaging platforms. Five face charges of terrorist group membership, 15 are set to be repatriated, and 16 remain in custody under investigation.
Three detainees have already returned to Bangladesh and are being interrogated, according to Expatriates’ Welfare Advisor Asif Nazrul. He stated that all returnees will be questioned, and those found linked to militancy will face trial.
