US, UK express deep sorrow over Osman Hadi's death
Alongside the condolences, US Embassy issued a security message for its citizens, advising them to avoid demonstrations and exercise caution
The United States and the United Kingdom today (19 December) expressed deep condolences over the passing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, the spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha who died while undergoing treatment in Singapore.
The US Embassy in Dhaka issued a statement expressing its solidarity with the people of Bangladesh during this time of mourning.
"The US Embassy joins the people of Bangladesh in mourning the loss of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi and offers our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and supporters," the statement read.
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Similarly, the British High Commission in Dhaka shared a message of grief, stating they were "deeply saddened" by the passing of the youth leader and extended heartfelt sympathies to his loved ones and supporters.
Security alert
Alongside the message of condolence, the US Embassy issued a routine security message for its citizens in Bangladesh, anticipating large-scale gatherings following the arrival of Hadi's dead body.
According to the alert, the body is expected to land in Dhaka at 6:05pm today.
The embassy noted that the funeral prayer (Namaz-e-Janaza) is scheduled to take place on Manik Mia Avenue, in front of the National Parliament Building, after Duhr prayers tomorrow (20 December).
The embassy warned US citizens to expect "extremely heavy traffic" across the capital and throughout the country as large spontaneous or planned gatherings are likely.
The advisory further urged US citizens to practice vigilance and maintain a high level of caution.
"Gatherings intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence," the embassy warned, advising its nationals to avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings.
The US embassy also encouraged individuals to review their travel plans through and around Dhaka, factoring in additional time for significant delays. US citizens were also advised to monitor local media for real-time updates on the security and traffic situation as the nation prepares for the high-profile funeral of the activist.
