Foreign Office officials have warned UK tourists against travelling to Bangladesh unless absolutely necessary. ” FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the whole of Bangladesh,” it warned, adding: “Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.”
The warning comes as Bangladesh’s prime minister is reported to have resigned, following weeks of deadly protests across the nation. Sheikh Hasina and her sister have reportedly fled to India by military helicopter, according to the country’s leading national paper.
The pair are seeking “safe shelter” away from her official residence, news agency Reuters reports. The Foreign Office added: “Due to the current situation in Bangladesh, including the interruption to access to the internet and telephone services, family members of British High Commission staff have been temporarily withdrawn. The British High Commission continues with essential work including assistance to British nationals.”
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Brits already in Bangladesh or due to travel imminently are advised: “The Bangladesh government imposed a nationwide curfew across Bangladesh from 11.59pm (local time) on 19 July 2024. The curfew timings vary across the country and are frequently changed. Follow the advice of local authorities. There is widespread violence across Bangladesh, including resulting in deaths. You are advised to shelter in a safe place and follow the advice of local authorities”.
“Communications have been severely disrupted, including mobile and internet services and local media,” reports Birmingham Live.
At least 95 people, including at least 14 police officers, died in the capital’s clashes on Sunday, as reported by local news outlets, with hundreds more sustaining injuries.
The demonstrations began with students seeking to end a quota system for government jobs, but clashes with police and pro-government activists escalated into violence that left more than 200 dead last month. The Foreign Office added: “No travel can be guaranteed safe.”
Ms Hasina, who has been leading the country since 2009, has decided to step down today (August 5).