The Tunisian embassy in Canada announced that the body of Leila Ben Salem, a 45-year-old woman killed in Montreal, will be repatriated on September 30, 2026, on a Tunisian Airlines flight. This follows the completion of administrative and legal procedures related to her tragic death, which occurred on September 22, 2026, in Montreal. The embassy stated that the repatriation will take place after obtaining approval from Ben Salem's family.

The Tunisian embassy in Canada has been working closely with the Canadian authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding Ben Salem's death. According to reports, Ben Salem was killed in her apartment in Montreal while participating in a virtual meeting with a colleague. A man entered the premises and attacked her with a solid object. The embassy has been providing support to Ben Salem's family during this difficult time.

The Tunisian embassy has expressed appreciation for the condolences and tributes paid to Ben Salem by the Canadian political and parliamentary class. The Tunisian ambassador to Canada, Asad Boutara, and the Tunisian consul in Montreal, Kamel Mekas, personally contacted Ben Salem's family to offer condolences and express solidarity. The embassy emphasized its commitment to defending the rights and interests of Tunisian citizens residing in Canada.

The embassy has been actively involved in following up on the case and providing assistance to Ben Salem's family. The Canadian authorities have been cooperative in investigating the incident, and the embassy has been working to ensure that the necessary procedures are carried out. Ben Salem's family has been informed about the arrangements for the repatriation of her body.

The incident has highlighted the importance of cooperation between Tunisia and Canada in addressing issues related to the safety and well-being of Tunisian citizens abroad. The Tunisian government has been working to strengthen ties with Canada, a country with which Tunisia shares linguistic, cultural, and humanitarian bonds. The embassy has reiterated its commitment to providing support to Tunisian citizens in Canada.

The repatriation of Ben Salem's body is expected to take place on September 30, 2026, and the embassy has made necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth process. The incident has sparked an outpouring of condolences and support for Ben Salem's family, and the Tunisian government has been working to provide assistance to the family during this difficult time.

The Canadian authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Ben Salem's death, and the Tunisian embassy is working closely with them to ensure that justice is served. The incident has highlighted the need for increased cooperation and coordination between countries to address issues related to the safety and security of citizens abroad.

Key points

  • The body of Leila Ben Salem will be repatriated to Tunisia on September 30, 2026.
  • The Tunisian embassy in Canada has been working closely with the Canadian authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding Ben Salem's death.
  • The incident has highlighted the importance of cooperation between Tunisia and Canada in addressing issues related to the safety and well-being of Tunisian citizens abroad.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.