Warden Message
November 6, 2008

Security Alert – Heightened State of Alert

The U.S. Embassy is issuing this warden message to inform American citizens that the Ethiopian Government’s Joint Taskforce of National Intelligence Security and the Federal Police have publicly warned of an unspecified terrorist threat concern in Ethiopia.  The Taskforce urged the public to cooperate with security forces and to inform the police of any information that might assist in their investigation.  The Taskforce asked that the public cooperate with security forces when stopped, questioned or searched.  The Embassy notes there has been an increase in security personnel in Addis Ababa and greater security at large hotels frequented by Westerners.

In light of the Government’s warning, the Embassy reiterates its advice to American citizens to avoid public gatherings and public places, including hotels, and that they avoid using public transportation and avoid transportation hubs. The Embassy further reminds Americans there have been targeted bombings in various parts of Addis Ababa over the past year that resulted in serious injuries and/or deaths. 

Americans are reminded to review their personal safety and security posture and to remain vigilant especially at public events and venues.  Americans are advised to beware of unattended baggage or packages left in any location, including in minibuses and taxis.

For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs internet website at http://travel.state.gov/, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, and Travel Warnings can be found.  Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada, or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8 AM to 8 PM Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. Federal Holidays.)

The U.S. Embassy is located at Entoto Avenue, P.O. Box 1014, in Addis Ababa; telephone: 251-11-124-2424; emergency after-hours telephone: 251-11-124-2400; consular fax: 251-11-124-2435; web site: http://ethiopia.usembassy.gov/.