Staff Reporter :
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has warned UK tourists heading to Bangladesh to “remain vigilant” while abroad as terrorist attacks there cannot be ruled out.
In an update published on Thursday, the FCDO issued a travel alert urging Brits to avoid large gatherings and follow local advice when in the country.
“There is a high threat of terrorist attacks globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times,” the FCDO stated.
“UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad,” it added.
Attacks could happen in crowded areas and places where foreign nationals are known to gather, religious buildings, or at political rallies.
“There have been occasional attacks against minority religious communities and targeting police and security forces.
These have included improvised explosive device (IED) attacks in major cities. Some groups have also targeted people who they consider to have views and lifestyles contrary to Islam,” the alert noted.
The travel alert also mentioned significant events between 2015 and 2017 in Bangladesh, stating that in 2015-2016, groups affiliated with Al Qaeda in the Indian Sub-continent (AQIS) claimed responsibility for murders in Dhaka and Sylhet targeting human rights activists and secular bloggers.
In 2016, there was an attack claimed by Daesh at the Holey Artisan Bakery in the Gulshan 2 district of Dhaka, which resulted in the deaths of 20 hostages, including foreign nationals, and two police officers.
In 2017, Daesh—also known as Islamic State ISIL and ISIS—claimed responsibility for bombings in multiple locations, including targeting a security check post near Dhaka Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
The FCDO said that Bangladeshi authorities continue 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,” it added.Regarding the political situation, it noted that Bangladesh has a long history of political violence.
