Two Bangladeshi youths from Madarganj upazila in Jamalpur district were killed in a road accident in Iraq’s Kurdistan province early Monday, Bangladesh time. The victims were identified as Bazlur Rashid, 38, and Monohar Ali, 36. Both were working at a confectionery shop in Iraq and were hit by a speeding private car while crossing the road on their way home. Police recovered their bodies and sent them to a local hospital morgue.

Family sources said Monohar Ali had gone to Iraq four years ago after taking a loan, while Bazlur Rashid had been there for one and a half years. Neither had valid documents or work permits. Their families in Jamalpur have been devastated by the news. Both men left behind wives and two children each.

Local administration officials said they learned about the incident through social media and advised the families to contact the Bangladesh Embassy in Iraq for repatriation of the bodies. Authorities also plan to inform higher officials to facilitate the process.