Riyadh:Dhaka The remains of Shahed Ahmed Ashik, one of the two Bangladeshi nationals killed in the Houthi attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, have been returned to Bangladesh. The attack resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals and left over 308 injured.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Shahed's body arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka at approximately 830 am on Friday. The State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shama Obaed Islam, received the body on behalf of the government, as noted by the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment.
The Wage Earners' Welfare Board provided immediate financial assistance to Shahed's family, including Tk 35,000 for burial and transportation costs. Additionally, a special grant of Tk 50,000 was given following his death. His employer, Saad Al-Essa Contracting Company, deposited 27,395.62 Saudi Riyals, approximately Tk 9 lakh, into the Bangladesh Embassy's account in Riyadh. This sum, covering his outstanding salary and benefits, will soon be handed over to the family.
Further financial support may be available for Shahed's family. They could receive an additional Tk 3 lakh, contingent upon possessing a valid Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) card. Additionally, there is a potential for Tk 10 lakh in insurance benefits, subject to the applicable coverage.
Shahed, aged 35, was from Malipara village in Madla union under Shajahanpur upazila of Bogura. The tragic incident on October 10 involved significant casualties, including injuries to several Bangladeshis.