Dhaka:According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Bangladesh and the United Kingdom have established a new cooperation framework to address organized immigration crime, prevent fraudulent migration, and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation by criminal networks.
The agreement is designed to enhance bilateral efforts in identifying, disrupting, and tackling organized immigration crime. This includes combating document and visa fraud along with other criminal activities related to irregular migration, as highlighted in a British High Commission press release.
Under this framework, both countries will improve information sharing and operational coordination to identify and dismantle criminal networks exploiting migrants through fraudulent schemes. They have also agreed on regular bilateral engagements to review progress, exchange information, and discuss cases of mutual interest.
British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Sarah Cooke, emphasized that this new arrangement reflects the longstanding partnership between Dhaka and London. She noted their joint commitment to fighting immigration-related crimes and protecting citizens from organized criminal groups seeking financial gain through migration exploitation.
Cooke further stated that enhanced bilateral cooperation would aid in preventing migration-related fraud, exploitation, and human trafficking while promoting safe and lawful migration. She expressed confidence that closer cooperation would enable both nations to effectively address organized immigration crime, support lawful migration, and bolster efforts to protect individuals and families from fraud and exploitation.
The framework underscores the shared commitment of both countries to safeguarding Bangladeshi citizens from criminal networks profiting from unsafe and irregular migration routes. It is also expected to strengthen cooperation between relevant authorities in addressing cross-border immigration crimes and protecting potential migrants from exploitation.