Executed Bangladeshi Couple in Saudi Arabia Held in Detention Since 2023, Consulate Files Show

Saudi Arabia recently executed two Bangladeshi nationals after accusing them of an immoral act inside a Mecca mosque. Documents from the Bangladesh Consulate General in Jeddah show the couple had been held in detention since August 2023 on separate charges. A confidential memo sent to the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment identifies the pair as Nazrul Islam Abdul Basir and Sweety Akhtar. Consulate records show Nazrul was detained on August 1, 2023 under cybercrime charges, while Sweety was detained on August 2 over allegations of adultery. The memo states both worked as cleaners for Al Majal Company. Nazrul was held at the Jeddah Correctional Facility and Sweety at the Jeddah Women's Prison. Consulate entries did not mention a death sentence, though Saudi authorities announced the executions on October 14.

Family Reactions

Families of the deceased stated they had no knowledge of any impending executions. The Bangladesh government has requested details of the legal proceedings, court judgements, and clarification on whether the couple could defend themselves. Nazrul travelled to Saudi Arabia in November 2022 from Brahmanbaria and spent over three years in jail. His mother, Rahima Begum, said he called from prison as recently as October 11. His family disputed the charges and demanded his body be returned. Sweety came from Tangail after borrowing Taka 1.5 lakh. Her father, Fazal Mia, said she reported being jailed over a workplace dispute and had spoken of returning home soon.

Context

Foreign workers in Gulf nations often face strict local laws and distinct legal systems that can differ significantly from their home countries. Consular services play a key role in tracking detained citizens abroad and seeking official clarification from host governments during major legal disputes.