State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has vowed to track down and prosecute the human trafficking syndicate responsible for luring Bangladeshi nationals into a Mediterranean crossing that recently claimed 22 lives.

Speaking at the ministry on Sunday, Shama emphasised that those who profit from such “criminal and inhumane” acts must face the law.

The events unfolded after a rubber boat carrying migrants from Libya toward Europe was stranded at sea for nearly a week.

On Friday, Greek authorities rescued 26 survivors, 21 of whom are Bangladeshi.

Survivors reported that 22 others perished during the six-day ordeal from starvation and dehydration, and bad weather. The victims’ bodies were cast into the sea by the traffickers.

Shama confirmed that the Bangladesh missions in Libya and Greece have been instructed to identify the individuals involved in the smuggling ring.

"Libyan nationals are involved here, and if there are any Bangladeshis, they must be identified and brought to justice," she said.

"Whether under international law or Bangladeshi law, they must face punishment."

The state minister noted that the smugglers typically lure vulnerable citizens with false promises, taking large sums of money only to abandon them in life-threatening conditions.

"It is extremely unfortunate. This incident shows how vulnerable our people are to these smugglers who deserve exemplary punishment," she said.

Among the victims were a woman and a child, though their detailed identities are still being verified.

The rescued Bangladeshis have been moved to hospitals and transit camps in Greece.

"Our mission is coordinating with Greek authorities to gather details on the survivors. It will take some time, but the work is ongoing," she said.

She said the traffickers likely promised a short one-day trip, but the vessel remained at sea for seven days without food or water.