Families of six Bangladeshis killed in a supermarket fire in Queenstown, South Africa, on July 28 say they are facing deep grief and financial hardship. Five of the victims were from Narayanganj Sadar upazila. Their bodies could not be brought back to Bangladesh because of a lengthy process and high costs, and the families agreed to burial in South Africa.

Relatives say they have received no significant assistance from local representatives, government institutions or the employer more than a month after the fire. They allege some victims had been taken to South Africa through irregular routes and that several had unpaid wages, including claims of six to seven months of arrears. The relatives also allege pressure not to speak publicly about the fire or outstanding payments.

Narayanganj Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Foyez Uddin said authorities remain in contact with the families and would assist applications to the Expatriates’ Welfare Ministry for government grants. He said the shop owner, Rowshan Member, would be called and efforts made to recover any verified wage dues. Attempts to contact Rowshan Ali for comment were unsuccessful.