Warden Message

Warden Message, March 7, 2007

This Warden Message is to alert all U.S. citizens that members of the banned Bangladeshi terrorist group Jamaatul Mujahidin Bangladesh (JMB) may attack Bangladeshi or Western targets to protest the anticipated execution of six senior leaders now on death row. Although the timing of the executions is unclear, they could occur at any time now that President Iajuddin Ahmed has reportedly rejected all clemency appeals. While we cannot substantiate media speculation that JMB members intend to conduct reprisal attacks, U.S. citizens are encouraged to take seriously the possibility of violent JMB action before or after the executions. JMB is responsible for orchestrating over 400 small, simultaneous bombings around Bangladesh in August 2005. JMB subsequently conducted a number of suicide attacks, but has not launched a successful operation since December 2005. Its known senior leadership has since been arrested.

We remind all U.S. citizens to be alert to current developments, such as JMB executions, that could affect their personal security. All U.S. citizens are strongly urged to exercise good personal security practices and maintain low profiles by following the guidance offered in the Department of State’s web link on personal safety (http://www.state.gov/m/ds/rls/rpt/19773.htm). Although the entire page is important, the third and fourth sections offer critical advice for enhancing personal safety while traveling and staying in a hotel. The three best ways for Americans to protect themselves are: 1) varying the routes and times they travel to and from work or any other regularly visited place, 2) using the buddy system when walking in their neighborhoods, and 3) carrying their mobile telephones with them.

Please continue to monitor the Embassy’s website for updated security information, dhaka.usembassy.gov. For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Bangladesh Public Announcement, Bangladesh Consular Information Sheet and other Public Announcements and Travel Warnings can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada; or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 am to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka can be reached at (880-2) 885-5500 during regular hours and for after-hours emergencies.

U.S. Embassy
Dhaka, Bangladesh