20 Dec 2024 | 10:28 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Increased security measures in place nationwide for holiday season through at least Jan. 1
Authorities bolstering security in Bangladesh through at least Jan. 1 for holiday season. Terror warnings possible.
Authorities are bolstering security across Bangladesh through at least Jan. 1 for the holiday season, which includes Christmas Day (Dec. 25), New Year's Eve (Dec. 31), and New Year's Day (Jan. 1). The tightest security measures are likely in the capital Dhaka and cities such as Chittagong, Cox's Bazar, Kuakata, and Sylhet. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) will deploy additional personnel to secure crowded places and sensitive locations such as churches and the Dhaka University area. Authorities will also control pedestrian movement and impose traffic restrictions in Gulshan, a prominent diplomatic and commercial district, as well as in Hatirjheel and areas surrounding Dhaka University.
Authorities may issue terror warnings due to threats posed by domestic militant groups, such as Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) and Ansar al-Islam. Such Islamist militant groups could attempt to stage attacks, particularly against Christian targets, during the holiday period. While officials have not identified any specific threats for the holiday season, violence against minority Christians has increased following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Aug. 5. The extremist group Hefazat-e-Islam has also reportedly issued threats to Christian leaders, warning them against celebrating Christmas. Potentially disruptive bomb threats may occur at shopping centers, bus terminals, metro rail stations, ports and ferries, and places of worship.
Security personnel typically monitor possible target sites, including religious buildings, transport hubs, government buildings, foreign diplomatic missions, and crowded public places like shopping malls and fairs. Heightened security measures may include checkpoints and frequent patrols near sensitive sites. Authorities will conduct security checks on individuals entering churches and similar locations. Security arrangements are unlikely to affect multinational business interests unless militants stage any significant attacks.
Exercise caution at shopping centers, transport hubs, places of worship, and other crowded public spaces. Plan for transport and business disruptions near transport centers and other public facilities due to increased security measures. Allow additional time if traveling to the transport hubs due to possible traffic congestion. Heed all official advisories and remain cooperative if stopped by authorities for security checks.
