The US Embassy in Dhaka is facing a heightened security threat due to a thwarted terror plot. The planned attack targeted the embassy, including plans to kidnap and murder embassy staff and a religious figure. Shamin Mahfuz, linked to Jama’atul Ansar Fil Hindal Sharqiya, was arrested. The terrorist group, along with AQIS, were involved in reconnaissance near the embassy. Following the discovery of the threat, the US government held meetings with the Bangladeshi government to address the situation. Discussions focused on strengthening security cooperation, counter-terrorism, law enforcement, and online safety. Shamin Mahfuz, who was previously arrested for terrorism in 2011, 2014, and 2023, was arrested by the RAB-11 and accused of links to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Several other individuals are also facing charges of terrorist training in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
To increase security, the US Embassy is working with the Bangladesh police to establish a special force under SPEAR to enhance emergency response capabilities.