The US Embassy in Dhaka has issued a security alert for citizens in Bangladesh advising that the US should consider returning to the United States if they feel unsafe as Bangladesh is currently on a Level 4 travel advisory of ‘Do Not Travel.’

The embassy asked US citizens to avoid the Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed Par on Saturday.

‘Reports indicate a peaceful “sit in” may occur at Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed Park in the Gulshan 2 neighbourhood of Dhaka at 3:00pm. local time today, Saturday, August 3,’ said the US embassy, adding, ‘Due to the unpredictable nature of the protests and the government response, US citizens should practice vigilance and avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings.’

The embassy also added that the US was aware of calls for a ‘total non-cooperation’ movement beginning on Sunday, August 4 and more protests were expected in the coming days.

The embassy asked US citizens to take shelter when necessary, monitor local news, remain vigilant, avoid large crowds and protests and always carry charged mobile phones for emergency communications.