Staff Reporter :The United Kingdom fears further terror attacks in Bangladesh targeting foreigners, particular the westerners. “There’s a heightened threat of further terrorist attacks and foreigners, in particular westerners, may be directly targeted,” said Foreign and Commonwealth Office of UK in its updated travel advice on Wednesday.Following a terrorist attack in Dhaka on 1 July 2016 that resulted in the death of 20 hostages and 2 police officers, you should remain vigilant, monitor local and social media and follow any specific advice of the local security authorities to avoid certain areas, the FCO statement added. Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL) claimed responsibility for the 1 July attack and has also claimed responsibility for a number of other terrorist attacks since September 2015. Groups affiliated to Al Qaeda in the Indian Sub-continent (AQIS) are also active and have claimed responsibility for the murder of a number of people who they consider to have views and lifestyles contrary to Islam.Security forces in Bangladesh remain on high alert following previous attacks. There may be increases in security force presence and restrictions on movement may be put in place at short notice.There is a heightened threat of further terrorist attacks. Attacks could be indiscriminate although foreigners, in particular westerners, may be directly targeted. Crowded areas and places where westerners are known to gather may be at higher risk of attack. You should minimise your exposure to these areas, consider your movements carefully and take appropriate security precautions. “FCO advise against all but essential travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts. This does not include the city of Chittagong or other parts of Chittagong Division,” said FCO statement yesterday. The UK Department for Transport (DfT) recently carried out assessments of security at Dhaka International Airport. Following this, the DfT has assessed that security at Dhaka airport does not meet some international security requirements. The UK government is working to support the Bangladeshi authorities to ensure that all international aviation security requirements are met. Read more about the DfT assessment.Tropical cyclones and flooding can affect parts of the country. You should monitor the progress of approaching weather systems on the website of the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, and follow the advice of local authorities. Bangladesh lies in a zone of seismic activity. In the event of an earthquake you should remain vigilant, stay in a place of safety and follow any advice provided by the local authorities.The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel. Up to 75,000 British nationals visit Bangladesh every year. Most visits are trouble free.
