The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Saudi Ambassador to seek an explanation regarding the execution of two Bangladeshi nationals in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

This information emerged on Sunday afternoon (October 18).

Earlier, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid remarked that the execution of the two Bangladeshis in Saudi Arabia serves as a significant lesson. She made this statement at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday afternoon (October 17).

The State Minister stated, "The execution of two Bangladeshis in Saudi Arabia is a major lesson for us. Saudi Arabia’s judicial system has remained consistent for many years. Bangladeshis who go there to live and work must abide by the laws of that country."

Shama Obaid noted that the Government of Bangladesh has not yet received specific details regarding the execution of the two individuals, though a letter has been sent to the Saudi authorities seeking clarification. "Based on past experience, I can say that Saudi Arabia has its own legal framework. If someone commits a grave offense under that framework, they are punished in accordance with those laws."

She added, "Our expatriate brothers and sisters work hard and invest their own resources to secure employment abroad. They must always remember that they are obligated to follow the laws of the country where they reside. If any law is violated, there is very little that can be done from our side as a nation."

Shama Obaid further explained, "In Bangladesh, too, foreign nationals who commit crimes are subject to penalties—including imprisonment—under our national laws. Similarly, Saudi law applies within Saudi Arabia. This incident serves as a lesson for all Bangladeshi citizens."

The State Minister remarked, "This is certainly unfortunate. We neither expect nor wish to hear such news. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sent a letter to the Saudi government. We will wait for their response; only then will we be able to provide further clarity on the matter."

When asked about the reasons behind the imposition of the ultimate penalty (capital punishment) on the Bangladeshi nationals, the State Minister reiterated that the Ministry has sent a formal inquiry seeking all relevant information. "Further details can be provided once a response is received from the Saudi government."

The State Minister for Foreign Affairs added that steps to repatriate the bodies will be taken as soon as a response is received from the Saudi authorities.

He stated, "A report from the labour wing of the Saudi mission indicates that the two Bangladeshi nationals were found engaging in illicit sexual relations inside a mosque in the city of Mecca—an act considered a grave offense under Saudi law. The court has taken action in accordance with that law."