Bangladesh: Protesters clash with police in Bhola October 20

Event

At least four people were killed and another 50 wounded after clashes erupted between protesters and police in Bhola on Sunday, October 20. Protesters had gathered to denounce a Facebook post in which a Hindu reportedly made derogatory remarks about the Prophet Mohammad. Officials said that hackers were responsible for the social media post, and that arrests had been made. 

Additional protests are possible in Bhola over the near term. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected around any demonstration site. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Individuals in Bhola are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and public gatherings, anticipate transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence around the conference site, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.