US issues security alert for its citizens in BD again
Staff Reporter :
The United States Embassy in Dhaka has issued a security alert for American citizens in Bangladesh, marking the second such notice in just one week.
The alert comes as the embassy reports a surge in violent and inciteful rhetoric circulating online.
In a message, the US Embassy Dhaka on Thursday said, “The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka is closely monitoring the security environment.
While the embassy is not aware of specific, credible, or actionable threats against the embassy or US persons and interests in Bangladesh, there has been an observed increase in violent and inciteful rhetoric online.”
The US Embassy has also advised its citizens to continue exercising caution and to maintain personal security awareness.
In the wake of this security alert, U.S. citizens are encouraged to stay informed about the situation through the embassy’s official channels and to follow recommended safety guidelines while in Bangladesh.
The embassy remains committed to providing updates and assistance as needed to ensure the welfare of American citizens during this period of heightened security concerns.
Earlier on Oct 12, the US State Department issued travel advisory with level 2 caution in Bangladesh due to crime, terrorism and the upcoming election.
It told its citizens to reconsider to travel in Chattagram Hill Tracts region due to occasional communal violence, crime, terrorism, kidnapping and other security risks.
Regarding the next general election, it said that political rallies and demonstrations may be held with increasing frequency or intensity as the general election draws nearer.
Travelers to Bangladesh should practice vigilance and remember that demonstration intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.
Regarding the previous travel alert, Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen stated that the travel advisory issued by the US government for its citizens is an internal affair, emphasising that there was no reason for concern within Bangladesh.
“The US always issues such travel alert. It is their internal matter. We are a peaceful nation. There is no reason to fear anyone, he said at an event held in the Begum Sufia Kamal Auditorium in the National Museum on Oct 14.
Meanwhile, the Embassy on Thursday told its citizens to avoid areas with demonstrations, keep a low profile, be aware of your surroundings, monitor local media for updates and review your personal security plans.
