Al-Shabaab May Target US Interests In Burundi, Says Travel Warning Update

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

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The United States has warned its citizens of the risks of traveling to Burundi. In a Travel Warning update on Monday, the State Department reiterated existing security concerns and noted that security restrictions on travel for U.S. Embassy personnel remain in place.

Because Burundi participates in peacekeeping operations in Somalia, the Somalia-based terrorist organization al-Shabaab has threatened terror attacks in Burundi. It may also target U.S. interests in Burundi, the Travel Warning update said.

U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Burundi are reminded to maintain a high level of security awareness at all times and avoid political rallies, demonstrations, and crowds of any kind.

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 recommended that U.S. citizens should not travel on national highways from dusk to dawn. American nationals are also advised to avoid traveling within the city of Bujumbura after midnight. 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 guidance, and to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so they can receive the most up-to-date security information.

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