US Warns of Possible Attack on US Interests on South African Soil
The United States Diplomatic Mission to South Africa issued a security message in Pretoria today – Tuesday 8 September 2015 – warning of a “terrorist threat to U.S. interests in South Africa.” The message for its US citizens reads: “The U.S. Diplomatic Mission to South Africa has received information that extremists may be targeting U.S. […]
The United States Diplomatic Mission to South Africa issued a security message in Pretoria today – Tuesday 8 September 2015 – warning of a “terrorist threat to U.S. interests in South Africa.”
The message for its US citizens reads:
“The U.S. Diplomatic Mission to South Africa has received information that extremists may be targeting U.S. interests in South Africa, to possibly include U.S. Government facilities and other facilities identifiable with U.S. business interests. There is no additional information as to timing or potential targeting.
“Review your personal security plans; remain aware and vigilant of your surroundings, including local events, monitor local news stations for updates and follow instructions from local authorities. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.”
Four days ago the US Embassy, which is based in Arcadia in Pretoria, posted a security message reminding US citizens in South Africa of the need for “caution and awareness of personal security” as the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks approaches.
That message read: “While there are threats against U.S. citizens everywhere, there are groups in the region who are intent on harming U.S. citizens and U.S. interests. Review your personal security plans; remain aware and vigilant of your surroundings, including local events, monitor local news stations for updates and follow instructions from local authorities. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.”
On the US Department of State’s Travel website, US citizens are also warned of possible attacks on US citizens and Westerners in Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia.
Apart from the US Embassy in Pretoria, there is also a US Consulate General in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
MORE INFO
US citizens in South Africa are advised to join the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages. For more info, and for contact details, click here.