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Embassy Messages for U.S. Citizens ("Warden Messages")
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Vigilance Advised. August 22, 2008
This Warden Message is to alert American citizens traveling to or residing in Colombia of increased terrorist activity. Several bombings of public facilities and increased seizures of explosive materials have necessitated a review of security procedures for U.S. Embassy personnel. On August 9, a bomb was detonated in north Bogota resulting in the injury of eight persons, including one American citizen. On August 16, several small explosions occurred in large grocery stores frequented by foreigners. The Embassy has noted a significant increase in security incidents in the Tolima Department, which demonstrate the capacity of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) to conduct attacks. Due to the recent security incidents, the Embassy prohibits personal travel by Embassy personnel to Tolima Department. The Embassy urges all Americans to avoid travel to Tolima until further notice.
American citizens and U.S. interests remain targets for terrorists and criminal elements. All U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to exercise caution. All official and personal travel outside of Bogota by Embassy personnel is subject to review. In addition, the Embassy advises all American personnel to avoid areas where foreigners are known to congregate. Throughout Colombia, Embassy personnel are prohibited from taking mass transit (e.g. public and private buses, metros, etc.). The Embassy strongly advises all Americans to refrain from using mass transit as well.
U.S. citizens in Colombia should be proactive in taking security precautions. They should vary their travel routes and the times of their arrivals and departures, and remain aware of their surroundings. U.S. citizens in Colombia should always avoid large public gatherings or demonstrations.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, , Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). American citizens traveling or residing overseas are encouraged to register with the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate on the State Department's travel registration website at https://travelregistration.state.gov.
In case of an emergency, please contact the Consular Section at the Embassy in Bogota, Carrera 45, # 24B-27, Bogota, D.C., Colombia. Emergency telephone contact may be made 24 hours a day at (571) 315-0811.