More Bangladeshi nationals could soon be arrested in Malaysia over alleged involvement in terrorism and extremist activities, according to Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain. He made these remarks on Wednesday after returning from Malaysia and inaugurating a month-long photo and graffiti exhibition at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka as part of the July Renaissance events.
Recently, Malaysian authorities arrested 36 Bangladeshis on charges of involvement in militant activities. Adviser Hossain, who attended the ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting in Malaysia, said he discussed the issue with the Malaysian Foreign Minister. Following the arrests, Malaysian authorities have launched a nationwide operation to identify others possibly connected to such activities. As a result, two more Bangladeshis have already been detained, and the Malaysian government has hinted that further arrests could occur under similar allegations.
According to Adviser Hossain, investigations have so far failed to prove militant links for most of those arrested. However, evidence was found against five individuals, who are now facing legal proceedings in Malaysia. If convicted, they could face prison sentences of two to seven years under Malaysian law. Some of the detainees may be repatriated to Bangladesh upon completion of the investigation.
The Foreign Affairs Adviser emphasized that the Government of Bangladesh is taking the matter very seriously. He assured the Malaysian authorities of Bangladesh’s full cooperation in combating terrorism and supporting ongoing investigations.