Naogaon, Aug. 10 -- At least 16 Bangladeshis were killed in a fire at a sofa factory in Saudi Arabia on Sunday.

The victims are from Naogaon, Natore and Rajshahi, the Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Ministry said in a statement early Monday.

Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury expressed deep shock and sorrow over the deaths.

He said the Bangladesh Embassy in Saudi Arabia is maintaining round-the-clock contact with the local authorities.

The officials concerned have been instructed to bring back the bodies of the deceased expatriates as soon as possible and ensure all necessary government assistance and compensation for their families.

The minister prayed for the eternal peace of t...