Continued Vigilance

September 21, 2012

The U.S. Embassy has information about a probable protest demonstration at the Embassy on Saturday, September 22 in the afternoon.  The U.S. Embassy is taking precautionary measures.  In this context, U.S. citizens should remain vigilant and stay in close proximity to their residences over this weekend.  As global reactions continue to an anti-Islamic  video and certain cartoons published in a French magazine that have resulted in violent attacks on some U.S. missions,  U.S. Embassy Dhaka urges all U.S. citizens to exercise extra vigilance at all times.

In particular, U.S. citizens are reminded that unpredictable processions or demonstrations may occur with little or no advance warning.  Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  U.S. citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations.  Be alert and aware at all times - in addition to possible violence, large crowds attract pick-pocketing. All individuals are reminded to carry their mobile phones with them at all times. U.S. citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

The Embassy also reminds all U.S. citizens that recognizing changes in the normal environment is the key to staying safe regardless of circumstances.  U.S. citizens should be aware that travel could be affected should the situation deteriorate.

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs internet website, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings, and Country Specific Information can be found.  Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well.  You can also download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.

All U.S. citizens in Bangladesh are urged to enroll online at the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).  Registering gives U.S. citizens access to updated information on travel and security within Bangladesh and makes it easier for the embassy to contact citizens in case of emergency.  Enrollees wishing to receive such information must provide an e-mail address with their enrollment.  All enrollees are urged to provide complete contact information and a departure date when signing up on-line.

The U.S. Embassy’s regular work week is Sunday-Thursday, 08:00-16:30 hours.  Emergency American Citizens Services are available at all times.  The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka is located at Madani Avenue, Baridhara, Dhaka, Bangladesh 1212, and by telephone at (88) (02) 885-5500 during regular hours and for after-hours emergencies.  For after-hours emergency services please press “0” and ask for the duty officer.

Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers in other areas by calling a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

American Citizens Services
U.S. Embassy
Dhaka, Bangladesh