Bangladesh unrest: US embassy in Dhaka issues security alert for Americans

The United States (US) embassy in Dhaka on Monday (Aug 5) issued an advisory for all American nationals in Bangladesh due to theunpredictable and volatile nature of the current political situation in the South Asian country.

In the latest news from the Bangladesh unrest, Sheikh Hasina resigned as the country's prime minister, fled to India and would now be travelling to London. The Bangladesh army chief announced the formation of an interim government in the country.

In its advisory, the US embassy said that the Bangladeshi army was deployed across the country and violent clashes occurred throughout Bangladesh.

'Shelter in a safe place'

"Due to the unpredictable and volatile nature of the current situation, and the potential for increased violence, US citizens should shelter in a safe place, and strongly consider returning to the United States when safe to do so," the embassy said.

Click here to follow all updates inthe aftermath of Sheikh Hasina's resignation

It pointed out that further violence connected to the government transition was possible.

"Gatherings and additional protests are unpredictable and may materialize quickly. Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news for updates," it added.

The embassy also said that its office in Dhakais open for limited operations only, and all routine consular services have been cancelled till Wednesday.

Precautions to take

The embassy advised American nationals to observe the following precautions:

> Avoid large crowds and protests, shelter in place when necessary.

> Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

> Monitor local news.

> Remain vigilant.

> Always carry your charged mobile phone for emergency communications.

> Consider departing Bangladesh, check with airlines on availability.

> Maintain an adequate supply of essential goods.

What has happened in Bangladesh so far?

> Sheikh Hasina is currently in India and it is not yet known when she will leave for London. She met Indian National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval at the Hindon Airport in Ghaziabad.

> Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting on the situation in Bangladesh. The meeting was attended by NSA Doval, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

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> The crisis precipitated in Bangladesh as students launched protests against the civil service job quotas last month. Students protested against public sector job quotas, which included a 30 per centreservation for family members of fighters from the 1971 War of Independence from Pakistan.

> The agitation wasinitially peaceful but soon turned violent. More than 350 people were killed in the clashes between student protesters and pro-government supporters. Thousands of people were injured, and scores of people were detained.

> Hasina had sought to quell nationwide protests against her government since early July but she fled the country after brutal unrest on Sunday in which nearly 100 people were killed.

>Bangladesh's Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said in a broadcast to the nation on state television that Hasina had resigned and the military would form a caretaker government.

(With inputs from agencies)