The US reiterates its advisory urging citizens to exercise caution around public gatherings in Bangladesh

The US has once again advised its citizens in Bangladesh to remain cautious around large gatherings amid nationwide protests triggered by the death of July Uprising figure Sharif Osman Hadi.

“US citizens should exercise vigilance and bear in mind that gatherings intended to be peaceful can become confrontational and escalate into violence,” said a routine advisory posted on the US Embassy in Dhaka’s website on Friday.

The advisory noted that “large spontaneous or planned gatherings are likely throughout Bangladesh” and urged Americans to avoid demonstrations and remain cautious near any large crowds.

The embassy also advised US citizens to reconsider travel in and around Dhaka when Hadi’s body is expected to arrive in the capital at around 6:00pm on Friday, as well as during his funeral prayers on Manik Mia Avenue on Saturday afternoon.

Americans were urged to allow extra time in their travel plans due to the possibility of delays.

Earlier on Monday, the US Embassy had similarly warned Americans in Bangladesh to avoid all demonstrations and exercise caution near large gatherings, citing concerns over potentially violent political events ahead of the February 12 national elections.