Brits have been issued a fresh warning against travel to areas of Bangladesh, amid fears over ‘likely’ terrorist attacks. The UK Foreign Office revised its travel advice to the region earlier this week, cautioning that such events would likely be ‘indiscriminate’.
“There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets,” the Government department’s site reads. “Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.”
The Foreign Office explained that crowded areas, religious buildings and political rallies are likely targets for potential terrorist attacks. It also warned that ‘some groups have targeted people who they consider to have views and lifestyles contrary to Islam’.
“There have been occasional attacks against minority religious communities and targeting police and security forces,” the advice continues. “These have included improvised explosive device (IED) attacks in major cities.
“The Bangladeshi authorities continue to work to disrupt planned attacks. Increases in security force presence and restrictions on movement may be put in place at short notice.
“You should remain aware of your surroundings, particularly in and around police buildings. Avoid large gatherings and other locations with a police or security presence. Follow the advice of local authorities.”
The Foreign Office’s warning comes amidst a wave of protests across Bangladesh. These demonstrations were initially peaceful, with university students campaigning against controversial quotas that saw a third of civil service jobs reserved for relatives of veterans who fought in Bangladesh’s 1971 War Of Independence.
Police and the Government were accused of using brutal force against peaceful demonstrators during these events, but these allegations were denied, reports BBC. The situation soon escalated into widespread violence and further discontent with the Government in power.
This has persisted despite the Supreme Court’s repeal of the quota on July 21 and hundreds of people have reportedly died. Amidst this, the Foreign Office also adds: “The situation remains volatile. Political rallies and demonstrations continue to take place. These can quickly turn violent, leading to clashes with law enforcement.
“During demonstrations and strikes (‘hartals’), there can be arson, violence and vandalism in towns and cities across the country, which can result in fatalities. Attacks against property and public transport are possible.”