Warden Message

Warden Message, May 23, 2006

On May 22, violent riots and civil demonstrations related to purported labor disputes occurred at the garment factories near the Export Processing Zone in Savar (Dhaka suburb). On May 23, violence erupted due to continued labor disputes in Dhaka at the Tejagoan factories with several garment factories suffering minor damage and many vehicles set ablaze. Thus far within the diplomatic enclave there have been no incidents of violence.

Although it appears that the situation has been contained, it is possible that more unrest will continue over the next few days in greater Dhaka. The Embassy has advised all official Americans not to travel outside the diplomatic enclave until further notice. We urge all American citizens to limit their personal travel around the city and to avoid areas where crowds are gathering.

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

U.S. Embassy
Dhaka, Bangladesh