Bangladesh: Police disperse students in Dhaka August 6 /update 4

Event

Local media reported that police officers dispersed student protesters near the Rampura area of Dhaka on Monday, August 6. Police fired tear gas at students who were gathering in front of the East West University around 12:00 (local time). Unconfirmed videos posted on social media allegedly showed students with sticks and metal rods rallying at the university. Tensions remain high in the city and further protests are possible in the coming days. Heightened security and widespread traffic disruptions are anticipated in the near-term.

Context

Protests began on July 29 after two students were killed in an accident caused by speeding passenger buses. Tens of thousands of students have staged daily demonstrations since July 29, resulting in violent clashes between protesters and security forces. Protests began and remain concentrated in Dhaka, particularly the Shahbagh area, though demonstrations were reported in nearby cities, including Gazipur, Narayanganj, Mymensingh, and Chittagong. According to the private research group National Committee to Protect Shipping, Roads, and Railways, more than 4200 pedestrians were killed in road traffic accidents in 2017. 

Advice

Individuals in Bangladesh, especially in Dhaka, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and large public gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Travelers are advised to anticipate significant transportation disruptions in the coming days, to plan for alternative routes avoiding demonstrations, and to never attempt to cross a roadblock without authorization.