Let no mother lose her children this way – Prothom Alo English

He said the country's image is tarnished by such bids to become immigrants. He also underlined the scope to become legal after going to European countries through illegal means, has shrunk.

Speaking as the chief guest, lawmaker Nahim Razzak said political and social leaders have to work to stop illegal immigration.

Most of the 400,000 illegal immigrants living in Italy are from Shariatpur and Faridpur districts, he said urging all to come forward in thwarting illegal immigration.

Stressing on the need to fight against human traffickers, the Italian ambassador said it is an imperative to create awareness about the risk associated in illegal migrating to a destination such as Italy.

A total of 28,405 people reached Italy illegally in the first three months of this year, which is 31 per cent more than the last year. Bangladesh currently tops the list of illegal immigrants in Italy as 4,606 people reached the European country illegally this year.

He said people are being duped by human traffickers, held hostage in countries such as Libya and being subjected to torture.