Bangladesh: Student activists call for 72-hour transport blockade in parts of Chattogram Division from Sept. 21 amid ongoing unrest /update 1

Student activists have called for a 72-hour transport blockade in Bandarban, Khagrachhari, and Rangmati districts in Chattogram Division from Sept. 21 amid ongoing unrest. Since Sept. 19, incidents of arson, civil unrest, clashes, and gunfire have erupted in Khagrachhari District between members of two local communities, with violence spreading into Rangamati District. Some reports suggest that a local temple was attacked and looted amid the unrest. The incidents have left at least three people dead and 15 others injured. The transport blockade will likely cause related disruptions to various ground and maritime transport services. Additional rallies are possible in the affected districts and other parts of the Chattogram Division, such as the Chittagong Hill Tracts region. Well-attended gatherings will probably draw hundreds to thousands of participants.

Officials are enforcing public gathering restrictions in parts of Chattogram Division as of Sept. 21 after a series of targeted attacks triggered by an alleged recent motor vehicle theft incident that resulted in the death of an individual; increased security is likely to remain in place through late September. Authorities have imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in Khagrachhari and Rangamati until further notice. The measure prohibits public gatherings of more than five people.

Depending on public safety needs, the government could implement further enhanced restrictions, including curfews. If significant violence occurs, authorities could also expand such restrictions to encompass additional regions. Related protests and clashes between various communities or activists and police are possible over the short term. Associated localized transport and business disruptions could occur. Further isolated security incidents are possible.