Monthly Archive for May, 2010

NEW State Department Travel Warning for Thailand

Published on May 28, 2010 in travel alert. 0 Comments

U.S. Department of State released the following Travel Warning on May 27:

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Thailand of recent political demonstrations and unrest in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Due to recent violence in central Bangkok, demonstrations in Chiang Mai, and other incidents throughout Thailand, the Department of State recommends against non-essential travel to Thailand at this time. The Department of State earlier authorized the departure of all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members from Bangkok. This replaces the Travel Warning dated May 15, 2010, to provide updated information on the security situation in Thailand.

While no political demonstrations are currently taking place, the underlying political issues causing the demonstrations and violence have not been resolved. The State of Emergency and curfew imposed by the Royal Thai Government remain in place. We recommend you follow local media for the latest developments on these issues.

The Royal Thai Government has declared a State of Emergency in the following provinces:

Bangkok metropolitan area, Chaiyaphum, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Chon Buri, Khon Kaen, Lampang, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Nan, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Samut Prakan, Si Sa Ket, Udon Thani

A State of Emergency gives the police and military increased powers to maintain public order. Specifically, security forces have the authority to:

· Prohibit gatherings of more than five people;

· Prohibit distribution of media or publications deemed to affect security or public order;

· Prohibit or limit the use of vehicles or particular routes; and

· Evacuate buildings or areas or prohibit entry into them.

You should expect to see more security forces personnel in the streets. You might encounter them at roadblocks or other security checkpoints. If you encounter police or military personnel, you should obey all instructions from them. Be sure to carry identification and proof of your U.S. citizenship at all times to present if asked by authorities.

The Royal Thai Government has imposed a curfew from 12 midnight to 4:00 am through at least Saturday morning, May 29, after which it will evaluate the need to extend the curfew. To find out if the Royal Thai Government has extended the curfew, please refer to local media and our website.

The curfew applies to the Bangkok metropolitan area, to the Thai provinces where there is a declared State of Emergency (see the list above), and to the Thai provinces listed below. Royal Thai Government officials may change this list, so please refer to media or local officials for the latest information. Reports indicate that troops have the authority to shoot on sight in response to acts of inciting unrest. U.S. citizens should maintain a low profile and refrain from nighttime outside activity until the situation improves.

In addition to the Thai provinces listed above, the curfew also applies to the following provinces:

Kalasin, Mahasarakham, Mukdaharn, Nakhon Pathom, Nong Bua Lamphu, Roi Et, Sakon Nakhon, Ubon Ratchathani

If you will be flying out of Bangkok in the next several days, we recommend that you leave for the airport well in advance of the curfew hours. If you are arriving at a Bangkok airport during curfew hours, we recommend that you stay at the airport until after curfew hours. Passengers may not be able to find public or for-hire transportation from Suvarnbhumi Airport to Bangkok during curfew hours and may need to wait until after curfew hours to go to Bangkok.

There were numerous incidents of explosive attacks, including several isolated grenade attacks, in and around Bangkok and Chiang Mai over the past two months. Additional explosive devices were discovered before detonation. Some of these incidents occurred at or near areas frequented by U.S. citizens. These incidents appear to be motivated by domestic politics and do not appear to be acts of international terrorism. The possibility of more such attacks cannot be ruled out. U.S. citizens are reminded to exercise caution and vigilance at all times. Immediately report to law enforcement or security personnel any unattended packages or bags or suspicious objects in public areas.

U.S. citizens are reminded that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence with little or no warning. U.S. citizens are urged to avoid the areas that may be targeted for demonstrations and to exercise caution in their movements around Bangkok.

NEW Travel Warning for Guatemala

Published on May 28, 2010 in Uncategorized. 0 Comments

U.S. Embassy Guatemala City issued the following Warden Message on May 28:

The following Warden Message informs U.S. citizens about an incident which occurred recently on Pacaya volcano. Please share the following information with the U.S. citizens on your warden list, and any other Americans you know, as soon as possible. Please contact the American Citizen Services Unit via e-mail (amcitsguatemala@state.gov), fax (2331-3804), or telephone (2326-4501) if you have any questions. Thank you very much for your support and assistance.

The U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City alerts U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Guatemala that a volcanic eruption of Pacaya Volcano, 20 miles from Guatemala City, occurred in the evening hours of May 27. Volcanic ash continues to fall, covering much of the surrounding area including, in Guatemala City. La Aurora International airport has ceased all operations due to falling and debris on the runway. International flights are being diverted to San Salvador and domestic flights to Santa Elena Peten. ConRed has issued a code red alert for all residents of the Departments of Guatemala and Esquintla and residents are advised to remain in their homes. Affected travelers are being advised to monitor the news on television or radio for the latest information and updates.

The U.S. Embassy in Guatemala will be closed on Friday, May 28 due to the eruption. The Embassy will also be closed on Monday, May 31 for an American Holiday. We encourage U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration website in order to obtain updated information on travel and security. Registering makes it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact you in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy in Guatemala strongly encourages U.S. citizens in Guatemala to register with the Consular Section through the travel registration website.

US State Department Warning for Afghanistan

Published on May 26, 2010 in travel alert. 0 Comments

The U.S. Department of State released the following Travel Warning on May 25, 2010:

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to Afghanistan. The security threat to all U.S. citizens in Afghanistan remains critical. This supersedes the Travel Warning for Afghanistan issued July 23, 2009, to remind U.S. citizens of ongoing security risks, including kidnapping, and to include an email address for the consular section at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul.

No part of Afghanistan should be considered immune from violence, and the potential exists throughout the country for hostile acts, either targeted or random, against American and other Western nationals at any time. Remnants of the former Taliban regime and the al-Qaida terrorist network, as well as other groups hostile to International Security Assistance Force (ISAF)/NATO military operations, remain active. There is an ongoing threat to kidnap and assassinate U.S. citizens and Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) workers throughout the country. Afghan authorities have a limited ability to maintain order and ensure the security of Afghan citizens and visitors. Travel in all areas of Afghanistan is unsafe due to military combat operations, landmines, banditry, armed rivalry between political and tribal groups, and the possibility of terrorist attacks, including attacks using vehicular or other improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The security environment remains volatile and unpredictable.

In Kandahar, the assassination of government officials, their associates, or anyone notably linked to the government has become alarming. The number of attacks throughout the south and southeastern areas of the country is growing as a result of insurgent and drug-related activity, and no part of Afghanistan is immune from violence. Kabul is also considered at high risk for militant attacks, including rocket attacks, vehicle borne IEDs, and suicide bombings. More than 20 attacks were reported in Kabul over the past year, although many additional attacks were thwarted by Afghan and coalition forces.

Incidents have occurred with some frequency on the Kabul-Jalalabad Road (commonly called Jalalabad Road) and Kabul to Bagram Road. As a result, these roads are highly restricted for Embassy employees and, if the security situation warrants, sometimes prohibited completely.

Five United Nations (UN) workers were killed during an attack on a UN guesthouse in Kabul in October 2009. Insurgent attacks also resulted in the deaths of several individuals working for U.S. Agency for International Development implementing partners during the week of April 10 – 16, 2010. The attack against a Kandahar guesthouse on April 15, along with the UN attack mentioned above, highlights the growing threat against guesthouses. Buildings or compounds that lack robust security measures in comparison to neighboring facilities may be viewed as targets of opportunity by insurgents.

Riots and incidents of civil disturbance can and do occur, often without warning. U.S. citizens should avoid rallies and demonstrations; even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

Carjackings, robberies, and violent crime remain a problem. U.S. citizens involved in property disputes — a common legal problem — have reported that their adversaries in the disputes have threatened their lives. U.S. citizens who find themselves in such situations cannot assume that either local law enforcement or the U.S. Embassy will be able to assist them.

From time to time, depending on current security conditions, the U.S. Embassy places areas frequented by foreigners off limits to its personnel. Potential target areas include key national or international government establishments, international organizations and other locations with expatriate personnel, and public areas popular with the expatriate community. Private U.S. citizens are strongly urged to heed these restrictions as well and may obtain the latest information by consulting the embassy website. U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State’s Country Specific Information for Afghanistan, and the current Worldwide Caution, which are located on the Department’s Internet travel website.

Travel Advisory for S. Africa and World Cup Soccer Tournament

Published on May 26, 2010 in Travel Advisory. 0 Comments

U.S. Department of State released the following Travel Alert on May 25, 2010:

The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in South Africa to safety and security issues related to the FIFA World Cup taking place in nine cities across the country from June 11 to July 11, 2010. This travel alert expires July 31, 2010. Full information about the World Cup for American visitors is available on the U.S. Mission to South Africa’s dedicated World Cup website.

TERRORISM: Large-scale public events like the World Cup may present a wide range of attractive targets for terrorists. There is a heightened risk that extremist groups will conduct terrorist acts within South Africa in the near future. While a number of terrorist threats against the World Cup in South Africa have appeared in the media in recent weeks and months, the U.S. Government has no information on any specific, credible threat of attack that any individual or group is planning to coincide with the tournament. In the event the U.S. Government receives information of any specific and credible threat, the Department of State will provide information on that threat to the public immediately through an updated Travel Alert or Travel Warning. All USC citizens in or traveling to South Africa are urged to register with the U.S. Mission to South Africa in order to receive these alerts as quickly as possible.

CRIME: The vast majority of visitors complete their travels in South Africa without problems; however, visitors should be aware that criminal activity, including violent crime, is prevalent throughout the country. Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times, looking out for your own personal security. While driving, keep doors locked and windows closed, avoid having purses, phones, bags and luggage in plain view, and when stopping at intersections at night or in isolated locations, leave enough space in front of your vehicle for a quick exit. Be wary of street vendors at traffic lights, planted obstacles and staged “accidents” that may be traps for unsuspecting motorists. Do not stop for cars with flashing lights unless they are clearly marked as police or emergency service vehicles. Park your car in secure, gated parking lots or garages wherever possible, and do not leave bags or valuables in plain view. Travelers to South Africa should avoid carrying or displaying expensive items or wearing eye-catching jewelry, stay in a group, and avoid walking at night. Keep a photocopy of your passport with you, leaving the original in a hotel safe or other secure location. Lost or stolen passports should be reported to the local police and nearest U.S. Consulate.

PUBLIC DISTURBANCES: Organized or wildcat labor actions and protests in poorer communities against shortfalls in public services may occur during the World Cup. While localized and normally well away from typical tourist destinations, these disturbances can develop quickly and unpredictably, sometimes turning violent. Use caution and avoid any areas where protests, demonstrations or other public disturbances are taking place.

IMMIGRATION, CUSTOMS, PUBLIC HEALTH: Scrutiny of foreign travelers arriving at South African ports of entry will be tightened during the World Cup. U.S. citizens should ensure they have two blank pages marked “Visas” in their passports as required for South African entry formalities. Those travelers with criminal records should consult the nearest South African Consulate or the South African Embassy in Washington, D.C., before traveling. Questions about carrying firearms or other unusual items into the country may also be directed to the nearest South African embassy or consulate. Any traveler coming from or passing through the so-called “yellow fever belt” of Africa and South America must carry certification of having received a yellow fever vaccination upon entry into South Africa. The yellow fever belt is defined to include the following countries/territories:

Africa: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Congo-Kinshasa, Cote d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Gabon, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Tanzania, Togo, and Uganda.

South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Peru, and Suriname.

LODGING: Extreme shortages of hotel rooms are likely during the World Cup, particularly in the smaller World Cup host cities including Bloemfontein, Nelspruit, Polokwane, Port Elizabeth, Pretoria, and Rustenburg. Visitors are urged to book rooms well in advance. See the FIFA 2010 World Cup Fan Guide for commercial accommodation services covering all World Cup host cities. Assistance with last-minute accommodation needs can also be obtained by calling South Africa Tourism at 087-803-INFO (4636), or from outside South Africa at 27-87-803-4636 (available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day).

TRANSPORTATION: While South Africa has adequate and generally safe intercity air and surface transportation including planes, buses, and trains, public transportation within cities is poorly developed and not nearly up to U.S. standards. Travelers are advised to use rental cars or book private transport from one of the many commercial operations available. While park-and-ride and park-and-walk facilities are being established around all 10 World Cup stadiums, space for parked cars is expected to be extremely limited. The website Find Your Way, operated by the South African Department of Transport and still under construction as of mid-May, promises to provide useful transportation-related information in time for the opening of the tournament. Assistance with transportation can also be obtained by calling South Africa Tourism at 087-803-INFO (4636), or, from outside South Africa, at 27-87-803-4636 (available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day).

US State Department Warning for Lativia

Published on May 26, 2010 in travel alert. 0 Comments

U.S. Embassy Riga released the following Warden Message on May 25, 2010:

The U.S. Embassy in Riga alerts U.S. citizens that temporary border controls have been restored between Latvia and other EU countries effective immediately and will remain until 6:00 PM on June 1, 2010. The Latvian Ministry of Interior informed the public that the restoration of border controls is necessary for security reasons due to the upcoming spring session of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, which will take place in Riga from May 28 to June 1, 2010.

Entrance into Latvia via all land, sea, and air borders will require a passport check. This includes the Riga Ferry Port Authority, Riga International Airport, and land borders with Estonia and Lithuania.

U.S. citizens intending to cross borders should carry a valid U.S. Passport and appropriate vehicle registration documents. The U.S. Embassy encourages American citizens to be patient and courteous if asked to present identification. Beware of the possibility of delays at crossing points.

While this is only a temporary measure in connection with the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, the Embassy advises U.S. citizens to always carry their passports when traveling to other countries, even for land journeys within the Schengen zone countries of Europe. There have been several recent reports of border guard officials in neighboring countries conducting passport checks, and some U.S. citizens residing in Latvia who did not carry passports were inconvenienced.

American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Government Warning Issued for Nigeria

Published on May 24, 2010 in travel alert. 0 Comments

The U. S. Department of State issued the following Travel Warning on May 24:

The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Nigeria and continues to recommend U.S. citizens to avoid all but essential travel to the Niger Delta states of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers; the Southeastern states of Abia, Edo, and Imo; and the city of Jos in Plateau State, because of the risks of kidnapping, robbery, and other armed attacks in these areas. Violent crime committed by individuals and gangs, as well as by persons wearing police and military uniforms, is a problem throughout the country. This replaces the Travel Warning for Nigeria dated July 17, 2009, to update information on violent activity and crime in Nigeria.

Since January 2009, over 111 foreign nationals have been kidnapped in Nigeria, including 18 in 2010. Six foreign nationals were killed in connection with these abductions; two U.S. citizens were killed in separate abduction attempts in Port Harcourt in April 2010. Local authorities and expatriate businesses operating in Nigeria believe that the number of kidnapping incidents throughout Nigeria is under reported.

A loose alliance of militant groups in the Niger Delta region has conducted a number of attacks against oil installations and posts of the Nigerian military’s Joint Task Force (JTF), which had attempted to close the militant camps. In June 2009, the Federal Government of Nigeria offered unconditional amnesty to any militant willing to surrender his/her arms and accept the government’s amnesty program. While almost all major militant leaders accepted the offer and the amnesty remains in effect, the potential for violence and the risk of kidnapping remains high. Violent incidents involving “ex-militants” continue.

Travel by foreigners to areas considered by the Nigerian government to be conflict areas without prior consultation and coordination with local security authorities is not recommended, as the Nigerian government may see this activity as inappropriate and potentially illegal and it may detain violators. Nigerian authorities detained six U.S. citizens, including journalists, on six occasions, in areas where militant groups had operated in 2008. The Nigerian government interrogated these U.S. citizens for lengthy periods of time without bringing any formal charges before ultimately deporting them. Journalists are required to obtain a special accreditation from the Ministry of Information prior to traveling to conflict areas in the Niger Delta region states. This special accreditation is in addition to the general press accreditation and a valid Nigerian visa which are required to conduct such activities elsewhere in Nigeria.

Many foreign oil companies operating in the Niger Delta states of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers have implemented “essential travel only” policies for their personnel. The U.S. Mission currently requires advance permission for U.S. government travel to these states, as well as the states of Abia, Edo, and Imo, and the city of Jos in Plateau State, given the safety and security risk assessments and the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General’s limited ability to provide assistance to people detained by Nigerian authorities in these states. U.S. citizens who are residents in these states are advised to review their personal security in light of the information contained in this Travel Warning.

Nigeria is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society in which different ethnic and religious groups often coexist in the same geographic area. Travelers throughout the country should be aware that, in areas where such circumstances prevail, there is the potential for ethnic or religious-based disturbances. The States of Bauchi, Borno, and Plateau have experienced violence by fringe sects or inter-ethnic groups in the past year.

Violent crime committed by individuals and gangs, as well as by some persons wearing police and military uniforms, is an ongoing problem throughout the country, especially at night. Visitors and resident U.S. citizens have experienced armed muggings, assaults, burglary, carjacking, rape, kidnappings, and extortion - often involving violence. Home invasions remain a serious threat, with armed robbers accessing even guarded compounds by scaling perimeter walls; following, or tailgating, residents or visitors arriving by car into the compound; subduing guards and gaining entry into homes or apartments. Armed robbers in Lagos also access waterfront compounds by boat. U.S. citizens, as well as Nigerians and other expatriates, have been victims of armed robbery at banks and grocery stores and on airport roads during both daylight and evening hours. Law enforcement authorities usually respond slowly or not at all, and provide little or no investigative support to victims. U.S. citizens, Nigerians and other expatriates have experienced harassment and shakedowns at checkpoints and during encounters with Nigerian law enforcement officials. Traveling outside of major cities after dark is not recommended due to both crime and road safety concerns.

State of emergency declared in Jamaica as coordinated attacks launched on police stations

Published on May 24, 2010 in Travel Advisory. 1 Comment

A state of emergency was declared in Kingston and St. Andrew on May 23rd after masked men attacked police stations and engaged in a shootout with officers. Authorities say four police stations came under heavy fire from gangsters who were roaming the streets with high-powered weapons. Officers fled a burning police station in West Kingston; at least two police officers were injured. Police say the attacks were unprovoked and linked to the planned extradition of a drug and arms trafficker. Authorities have called for law-abiding citizens in the troubled areas to evacuate their homes as scores of criminals from all over the country reportedly traveled to Kingston to participate in the violence. Supporters of the drug lord have reportedly barricaded dozens of streets and are preparing to engage in additional clashes.

Tensions have been high in Kingston since Prime Minister Golding reversed a long-standing refusal to extradite the drug lord to the U.S. last week; authorities have called for the drug kingpin to turn himself in to authorities.

Death toll rises to 20 in Sri Lanka; government warns of disease outbreaks

Published on May 21, 2010 in Travel Advisory. 0 Comments

The death toll from flash floods and landslides caused by heavy rain rose to 20 on May 20th after six days of torrential rains on the island nation, a spokesperson for the Disaster Management Center said. The rains reportedly stranded some 500,000 people, destroyed some 230 homes, and damaged 1,000 others. The rains particularly affected the Western Provinces, including Colombo. In related news, the Health Ministry warned on May 19th of possible outbreaks of communicable diseases, such as diarrhea and typhoid, as well as insect-borne diseases, such as cholera, in areas affected by heavy rains.

US State Department Issues Warning for Burundi

Published on May 20, 2010 in Uncategorized. 0 Comments

The U.S. Department of State released the following Travel Warning on May 19, 2010:

The State Department warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Burundi before, during, and after nationwide elections scheduled from May to September 2010. This notice replaces the Travel Warning for Burundi, dated July 22, 2009, to provide information regarding travel to and within Burundi during the election period, as well as revised information on security restrictions for Embassy personnel.

Burundi was plagued by a civil war from 1993 to 2006 that often involved non-governmental and non-combatant targets. In December 2008, the government and the last rebel group, the PALIPEHUTU–FNL, signed their final cease-fire agreement. The rebels have since demobilized and were transitioned into an officially-recognized political party known only as the FNL. In the past, Burundi has experienced violence in Bujumbura and other areas of the country throughout campaign seasons, elections, and in the weeks following the announcements of election results.

Between May and September, Burundi will conduct five, possibly six, nationwide elections. These include: May 21 – Communal Councils; June 28 - President, with a possible runoff election three weeks afterward; July 23 - National Assembly Deputies; July 28 - Senate; and September 7 - local ‘colline’ councils. As the political situation intensifies, the U.S. Embassy expects sporadic incidents of violence to occur. The U.S. Embassy has requested curtailment of official U.S. government travelers on temporary duty (TDY) to Burundi from May 1 to September 15, 2010, while Burundi is conducting elections. Although U.S. citizens are unlikely to be targeted, the possibility of being caught in violence remains. The U.S. Embassy encourages all U.S.citizens living and working in Burundi to exercise prudence; citizens considering travel to Burundi should avoid arriving before mid-September 2010.

U.S. citizens should be aware that even peaceful gatherings and demonstrations can turn violent. U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Burundi during this period are reminded to maintain a high level of security awareness at all times and avoid political rallies, demonstrations, and crowds of any kind. Even seemingly peaceful sporting events can become politicized and turn violent. U.S. citizens are strongly advised to avoid polling places on election days. All election days are recognized national holidays; U.S. citizens are encouraged to stay home. U.S. citizens should monitor the situation via local media sources and the internet. Significant traffic congestion, shortages of lodging availability, and large crowds throughout the country, particularly in Bujumbura, are likely to inconvenience travelers.

Crime, often committed by groups of armed bandits or street children, poses the highest risk for foreign visitors to both Bujumbura and Burundi in general. Common crimes include muggings, burglaries, robberies, and carjackings. Visitors should keep vehicle doors locked and windows up, and be careful when stopped in heavy traffic due to the threat of robbery. The U.S. Embassy has received reports of armed criminals ambushing vehicles, particularly on the roads leading out of Bujumbura. U.S. Government personnel are prohibited from walking on the streets after dark and from using local public transportation at any time. Due to a lack of resources, local authorities in any part of Burundi are often unable to provide timely assistance during an emergency.

The U.S. Embassy continues to caution U.S. citizens that travel outside the capital, Bujumbura, presents significant risks, especially after nightfall. The U.S. Embassy restricts travel of its personnel in Burundi: within 30 km of the city, employees may travel in single vehicles, but must check in and out with the Embassy. The Embassy’s Regional Security Officer (RSO) must pre-approve all embassy personnel travel outside this approximately 30-km radius of Bujumbura, and employees must travel by an approved itinerary in two-vehicle convoys equipped with satellite phones and emergency equipment. All employee movement outside the city after dark is forbidden; the Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens not travel on national highways from dusk to dawn. The RSO may also place further restrictions on employee movement due to changing security conditions during the electoral period.

U.S. citizens who travel to or remain in Burundi despite this Travel Warning are urged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura for information on the latest Embassy security guidelines, and to register at the State Department’s travel registration web site. By registering, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.

U.S. citizens without internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura at Avenue des Etats-Unis. The hours for non-emergency American Citizen Services are 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Fridays. The Embassy Consular section can be reached by telephone, including after-hours emergencies, at (257) 22-20-7000, or by fax at (257) 22-22-2926. Security information for U.S. citizens in Burundi is posted at the Embassy’s website

US State Department Issues Warning for US Citizens Traveling to Rocky Point

Published on May 20, 2010 in Travel Advisory. 3 Comments

U.S. Consulate Nogales released the following Warden Message on May 19, 2010:

This Warden Message is to inform U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Mexico of security concerns for travelers driving on Highway 8 between the U.S./Mexico border and Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point). There have been reports that unauthorized checkpoints have been set up by unknown persons at night. Reports from those passing through these checkpoints indicate that the operators of the checkpoint only requested identification before allowing vehicles to pass. U.S. Consulate Nogales strongly advises any traveler who must take this route to do so during daylight hours.

The Consulate’s Security office has advised Consulate personnel to limit travel to major roads during daylight hours. Further, Consulate staff on official travel between cities must use armored vehicles. U.S. government employees are also instructed to follow the security practices detailed in “A Safe Trip Abroad”.

If you are stopped at an unofficial checkpoint:

1. Do not resist. Cooperate immediately and fully.

2. Stay calm, put up your hands, and comply with demands.

3. If you have a child in the car, immediately alert the checkpoint operators of the child’s presence.

At some checkpoints, motorists who have not stopped at the unofficial checkpoints have been shot at and killed.

If you are a victim, be sure to notify the U.S. Consulate in Nogales (+52-631-313-8150, or +52-631-318-0723 after hours) and consider contacting local police at 066.

U.S. citizens traveling through northern Mexico should exercise caution. Review of recent violence indicates that although criminal acts can occur unexpectedly at any time of day, overall it is safer to travel during the morning and early afternoon hours. American citizens are advised to refer to guidance in the Department of State’s most recent Travel Warning for Mexico located on the internet and Country Specific Information for Mexico for additional information regarding the current security situation in the country. U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate through the State Department’s travel registration website.