DHAKA, July 03 (V7N) – Bangladesh has formally requested detailed information from Malaysian authorities concerning the recent arrest of 36 Bangladeshi nationals on alleged militancy charges. Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain confirmed today that Dhaka is "awaiting their response" to verify the allegations.

"We have sought detailed information about the 36 Bangladeshis arrested in Malaysia, and we are now awaiting their response," Hossain told reporters during a regular briefing at the foreign ministry this afternoon. He affirmed that if the individuals are found to be involved in militancy, Bangladesh "will ensure their punishment."

The arrests were publicly announced by Malaysia’s Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on June 27, who stated that the Bangladeshi nationals had alleged direct links with an extremist militant group. Reports from Malaysian media indicated that the police operation, which began on April 24, involved three phases of arrests in Selangor and Johor. Among those detained, five have reportedly been charged under Malaysia's Penal Code for terrorism-related offenses, 15 have been issued deportation orders, and the remaining 16 are still under investigation. Malaysian authorities allege that the group established recruitment cells within their community to spread extremist ideologies inspired by the Islamic State (IS), collect funds for terrorist activities, and aim to topple the legitimate government in their country of origin.

When questioned about the potential negative impact of this incident on the issuance of Malaysian visas to Bangladeshi nationals, Hossain acknowledged that "Any negative incident can affect visa issuance … we cannot say it will not have an impact." However, he stressed the importance of taking "proper steps" to minimize any adverse consequences.

In related news, Hossain confirmed that Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus is scheduled to undertake a bilateral visit to Malaysia in August. "We are working to finalize the dates for the visit," he added, indicating that the visit will proceed despite the recent arrests. This upcoming visit will likely provide an opportunity for high-level discussions on this issue and broader bilateral relations.

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