Eight Sunamganj men feared dead in Mediterranean while attempting to reach Italy

Families mourn youths from Derai and Jagannathpur who sold land and gold for the “European dream”

At least eight young men from Sunamganj are feared to have drowned in the Mediterranean Sea while attempting to reach Italy illegally.

The news of the tragedy has plunged their villages in the Derai and Jagannathpur Upazilas into deep mourning, with families claiming the youths fell victim to human traffickers.

While officials have received information regarding eight deaths, unconfirmed local reports suggest the toll could rise to 10.

"We have gathered information that eight individuals from Derai and Jagannathpur have died," said Md Azizur Rahman, inspector (DIO-1) of the Sunamganj District Police. "Locals are claiming two more are missing or dead. We are investigating all leads."

The reported victims from Derai Upazila include Nuruzzaman Sarder Moyna, Sajid, and Shahan -- the latter two being known only by their single names -- all hailing from Tarapasha village in Kulanj Union, and Mujibur Rahman from Rarnarchar in Rajanagar Union.

In Jagannathpur, those feared dead are Aminur Rahman (35), Shayek Miah (20), Md Ali, Naeem Ahmad, and Monir Hossain.

Reports also emerged of another youth named Fahim from Dowarabazar Upazila.

Families said they received the news through social media and international news outlets after losing contact with the men.

Umed Ali, the maternal uncle of victim Nuruzzaman, told bdnews24.com that the family had paid a trafficker Tk 1.2 million to send the youth to Italy.

"He was the beloved son among seven siblings. His father sold their land and cattle to raise the money. Now, the money is gone and we have lost our boy forever. We demand justice against this trafficking ring," he said.

Local Union council member Shahnur Mia said the youths had been lured by the "European dream", leading their families to sell ancestral land, ploughing oxen, and even their mothers’ jewellery.

In Jagannathpur, the brother of victim Naeem said his sibling was taken to a "game house" -- a transit camp used by traffickers -- before being put on a boat.

"We haven't been able to reach him for days. Today, we heard he died at sea," he said.

Chilaura Holdipur Union Council Chairman Shahidul Islam Bakul confirmed that two youths from his area had paid large sums to traffickers to reach Greece.

"These families are now destitute," he added.

Local authorities, including Derai administrator Sanjib Sarkar and Jagannathpur officials, said they are coordinating with Union council chairmen to verify the deaths.

Derai Police chief Enamul Haque Chowdhury said legal action would be initiated if the bereaved families file formal complaints.