The UK government has warned travelers of possible terrorist attacks in Bangladesh and has updated its travel advice to reflect this warning.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) reviewed the “safety and security” section of its advice for Bangladesh on Tuesday evening.
The update strengthens the existing discouraging opinion “all but essential travel” to Bangladesh.
“Terrorists are likely to attempt to carry out attacks in Bangladesh,” reads the updated FCDO travel advisory.
“Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as crowded areas, religious buildings, and (and) political rallies. Some groups have targeted people they consider to have opinions and lifestyles contrary to Islam,” the notice states. on.
“There have been occasional attacks against minority religious communities and against police and security forces. These include attacks using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in major cities. Bangladeshi authorities continue to work to disrupt planned attacks. Increases in the presence of security forces and restrictions on movement could be put in place in the short term,” he adds.
Under the “political situation” section, the fact remains that the “situation remains volatile” in the country.
“Political rallies and demonstrations continue to take place. These can quickly turn violent, leading to clashes with law enforcement. During protests and strikes (“hartals”), arson, violence and vandalism can occur in cities across the country, potentially leading to deaths. Attacks on property and public transport are possible,” it reads.
The FCDO's advice is travel guidance rather than government-imposed regulation and could lead to travel insurance being invalidated if this advice is overlooked.
This update follows a series of parliamentary interventions by MPs from all parties, raising concerns about recent attacks on the minority Hindu community there and the arrest of religious leaders in Bangladesh.
“We are aware of the Indian government's statement of concern following the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a well-known Hindu leader, for sedition. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is closely monitoring these developments,” Catherine West, Minister for the Indo-Pacific, told the House of Commons on Monday.
The minister said she received assurances from Bangladesh's caretaker government that support was available for minority communities during her visit to Bangladesh last month.
