The UK government has warned travelers about a possible terrorist attack in Bangladesh and updated its travel advisory to reflect this warning.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) reviewed the ‘safety and security’ section of its recommendations for Bangladesh on Tuesday night.
The update strengthens existing recommendations against “all but essential travel” to Bangladesh.
The latest FCDO travel advisory states: “Terrorists are likely to attempt attacks in Bangladesh.”
“Terrorist attacks can be carried out indiscriminately, including in places visited by foreigners, such as crowded areas, religious buildings, (and) political gatherings. “They are targeting people who appear to have a similar lifestyle,” the advisory says. Above.
“Attack against minority religious communities and attacks targeting police and security forces occur from time to time. These include attacks with improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in large cities. Bangladeshi authorities “We are continuing our efforts to thwart the planned attack. Increased security presence and movement restrictions may be introduced at short notice.”
In the “Political Situation” section, there remains a recommendation that the domestic situation “remains unstable.”
“Political rallies and demonstrations continue. These can quickly turn violent and lead to clashes with law enforcement.During demonstrations and strikes (“hartals”), towns and cities across the country Arson, violence, and vandalism may occur in cities, resulting in deaths. Possible attacks on property and public transportation.”
The FCDO advisory is travel guidance rather than a government-imposed regulation, and if it is ignored, travel insurance may be invalidated.
The update follows a series of parliamentary interventions by bipartisan MPs, raising concerns over recent attacks on Bangladesh’s minority Hindu community and arrests of religious leaders.
“We are aware that the Government of India has expressed concern following the arrest of prominent Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das on charges of sedition. “The FCDO Desk is closely monitoring these developments,” Indo-Pacific Minister Catherine West told the House of Commons on Monday.
The minister said that during his visit to Bangladesh last month, he was given assurances from the Bangladesh Interim Government that support would be provided to ethnic minority communities.
