Warden Message August 23, 2009: Al-Qaeda Threat to Americans During Ramadan
U.S. Embassy Nouakchott
23 August 20009
Al-Qaeda in the Land of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) may use Ramadan as an opportunity to conduct further attacks against American citizens. Both U.S. Government officials and private Americans working for faith-based organizations may be particularly targeted. American citizens traveling to or residing in Mauritania should maintain a sense of heightened awareness during the Ramadan season. American citizens are urged to consult the Department of State's Worldwide Caution dated 29 July 2009 for additional information and details.
We encourage American citizens to be especially aware of their security and surroundings. The U.S. Mission has advised its personnel to avoid non-essential travel out of Nouakchott or evening travel and to avoid areas with significant crowds, places where large numbers of foreigners gather, and large cultural or other events without a visible security presence. Enhanced security awareness also includes varying routes and times of movements to and from work. American citizens should stay current on local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times. American citizens are also urged to register with the U.S. Embassy. They can do so in person or at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/.
Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy’s website the U.S. Department of State's, Bureau of Consular Affairs’ website www.travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information can be found. The Country Specific Information for Mauritania was updated on August 20, 2009. The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review to "A Safe Trip Abroad," found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html, which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.
The U.S. Embassy can be reached at:
Telephone: (222) 525-2660 (business hours)
(222) 525-3288 (after hours)
Address: 288, rue 42-100 (rue Abdallaye)
Nouakchott, Mauritania
Located between the Spanish Embassy and the Presidency
Website: http://mauritania.usembassy.gov