, March 29 -- State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Sunday said exemplary punishment must be ensured for those involved in human trafficking and this inhumane act must stop.

"The long-term solution is that we must stop this inhumane act. Human traffickers must be punished both through domestic and international laws," she told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

At least 18 Bangladeshis died while attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea.

They were trying to reach Greece via Libya through a risky illegal route.

"Our missions are in constant communication with the authorities there. Our Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Ministry is also aware of this. We are working together to ensure proper supp...