U.S. Embassy in Dhaka Issues Security Alert for American Citizens in Bangladesh

Staff Correspondent

The US Embassy in Dhaka has issued a special security alert for US citizens in Bangladesh. The alert was issued on Friday, December 19, in anticipation of large crowds and heavy traffic congestion surrounding the return of the body of Inqilab Manch spokesman Sharif Osman Hadi and his funeral.

According to a statement published on the US embassy’s website and social media, according to media reports, Sharif Osman Hadi’s body is expected to arrive in Dhaka at 6:05 pm on Friday. His funeral is expected to be held on Saturday, December 20, at approximately 2 pm after Zuhr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in front of the National Assembly Building.

The embassy has expressed concern that heavy traffic congestion and other undesirable situations may arise in various parts of Dhaka, in addition to the areas affected by the program. The warning urged US citizens to avoid protests and large public gatherings.

It states that even peaceful gatherings can suddenly turn into conflict and violence, so extra caution is advised.

The US Embassy in Dhaka also expressed its condolences on the death of Sharif Osman Hadi. The statement said that the US Embassy stands with the people of Bangladesh in deeply mourning the death of this young leader and extends its condolences to his family, friends, and supporters.

According to Inqilab Mancha sources, after the body reaches Dhaka, it will be taken to Dhaka University Central Mosque for public to pay their respects.

It is worth mentioning that Sharif Osman Hadi was shot in the head during an election campaign in Purana Paltan on December 12, the day after the announcement of the schedule for the 13th National Parliament Election and Referendum. He was preparing to contest the election as an independent candidate from Dhaka-8 constituency. He was admitted to Singapore General Hospital with serious injuries. He died there at around 9:45 pm on Thursday, December 18, while undergoing treatment.

Tensions have flared in various parts of the country, including the capital, after news of Hadi’s death spread. Protest marches and rallies are being held in various areas. In this context, the US Embassy has issued special security instructions for its citizens in Bangladesh.