Subject: International Security Bulletin - June 1, 2001
From: [email-masked]
To: [email-masked]
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Date: Thu, 31 May 2001 20:38:08 -0700 (PDT)

The information contained in this travel advisory has been selected from International Security newsletters. The intent is to provide information on countries where Enron has a temporary or longer term presence.

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ALBANIA

-	Grenade explodes in market, nine injured

In an example of the lack of safety in Albanian public life, Albanian police chief Bilbil Mema announced on Tuesday, May 29, that a grenade exploded in a central Tirana fruit and vegetable market. The Chinese-made grenade injured nine people, two of them seriously. Although police have yet to determine a motive for the attack, it is likely related to ongoing battles among organized criminal elements in the country. Fueled by the active black market for arms that grew during the breakup of the Yugoslav Federation, Albania over the past decade has become a hotbed for organized crime and a picture of instability. The consequent turf battles and bombings in public spaces that endanger innocent passers by makes safety a major concern when traveling to Albania. (Control Risks, May 31, 2001)

ALGERIA

-	U.S. State Department Travel Warning

The United States Department of State warns U.S. citizens to evaluate carefully the implications for their security and safety before deciding to travel to Algeria. Although considerably fewer terrorist incidents have taken place in Algeria over the last three years, unpredictable attacks still occur in rural villages, on roadsides and public transport, and at night. The most recent terrorist activity has occurred in rural areas in northern Algeria. At the height of terrorist violence in Algeria, many commercial airlines cancelled service to and from Algeria. Since then, a number of carriers have resumed service, including one western airline. Most official foreign travel by U.S. Government employees and visitors is via chartered aircraft, although commercial carriers are sometimes used. The Department of State strongly recommends that those Americans who travel to Algeria exercise maximum caution and take prudent measures.  These include limiting use of regularly scheduled commercial flights and being met and accompanied by pre-arranged local contacts upon arrival and departure at airports. Nighttime and overland travel should be avoided.  Visitors to Algiers should stay only in the large, internationally recognized hotels where security is provided. U.S. citizens should not move anywhere in Algeria unless accompanied by a known Algerian companion. This applies to walking the streets of Algiers and other cities. U.S. Embassy personnel take all of the precautions mentioned above. In addition, embassy employees and official visitors are restricted to the embassy compound or their hotels except as necessary to conduct official business or limited personal business in the capital. All travel by official Americans in Algiers is by armored car with appropriate security. U.S. oil companies operating in the desert region south of the Saharan Atlas Mountains have experienced no attacks in the past year. The Algerian government and the companies themselves take stringent security precautions to ensure their safety, including many of the measures described above. For further information on travel to Algeria, please consult the Department of State's latest Consular Information Sheet on Algeria at http://travel.state.gov. This replaces the Travel Warning dated March 31, 2000, to address the changing security conditions in Algeria. (U.S. State Department, May 31, 2001)

-	Protests in Algiers and Oran as unrest in Kabylie continues

Peaceful protests took place in Algiers and Oran against the government and in support of the Kabylie protesters on Monday, May 28. Riots and clashes with security forces in the Kabylie region continued over May 25-28, notably in Tizi Ouzou, Bejaia and Bouira, and unrest spread to the Boumerdes region. The protests in Algiers and Oran were both against a restrictive draft press law against the actions of the security forces in the Kabylie region. The unrest in the Kabyle region is expected to continue in the short term. There is a possibility that the cycle of mass protests, repression and unrest could spread to Algiers and Oran. Personnel planning trips to the country should monitor the situation closely and should postpone travel to Kabylie until the region stabilizes. The unrest will not affect the oil-producing regions of Hassi Messaoud and Hassi R'Mel. (Control Risks, May 29, 2001)

ARGENTINA

-	Protesters threaten to block international flights

Members of the Aeronautic Workers' Association (APA) on Monday, May 28, attempted to block Iberia flight 6844 out of Ezeiza International Airport, were demanding payment of April salaries. Protesters threatened to block all international flights from May 29 if the national airline Aerolineas Argentinas continued to refuse to pay the salaries. This is likely to create delays, with particular focus on Spanish airlines SpanAir, Air Plur and Iberia. However, all business travelers are advised to contact their airlines for the latest information and to establish whether alternative travel arrangements have been made. Furthermore, it is expected that disruption to Aerolineas Argentinas flights and to those of its domestic subsidiary Austral will continue. Personnel are advised to monitor the situation, expect demonstrations and a heavy police presence at the airport and avoid all protests to minimize their exposure to incidental violence. (Control Risks, May 29, 2001)

BAHRAIN

-	Heightened terrorist threat alert for US military 

US military forces in Bahrain are on a higher state of alert after a weekend threat against American targets there, US officials reportedly said. The roughly 1,400 US military personnel were ordered to move to the Pentagon's second-highest state of alert after "a specific threat," the officials said, and are meant to warn that some form of terrorist action is imminent; although, the particular target had not been identified. Pentagon officials told media the alert is not related to the May 29 conviction in a New York court of four terrorists believed by the US to be connected to terrorist suspect Osama bin Laden. The four were convicted of conspiracy in the 1998 bombings of two US Embassies in East Africa in which 224 people died. US forces in the Persian Gulf region were last ordered to Threat Condition Delta, the highest alert, after the October terrorist bombing of the destroyer USS Cole in the Yemeni port of Aden that killed 17 US sailors and wounded 35 others. No equivalent warning has been issued by the US State Department; although, it cautioned of a sustained threat of possibly politically motivated violence in Bahrain arising from continuing regional tensions. (Control Risks, May 31, 2001)

BANGLADESH

-	Islamist protests possible at conference in Dhaka on June 1-2

A conference entitled 'Fundamentalism and communalism in South Asia', which is being held on Friday and Saturday, June 1-2, at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka, is expected to attract protests from conservative Islamic organizations. Religious organizations in Bangladesh are extremely sensitive to criticism and the authorities' efforts to restrict their role in society, and will object to the conference, which has been set up to discuss the ways in which the spread of religious extremism can be prevented in the region. Personnel should avoid any protests that take place to reduce the risk of being involved in any clashes between protesters and security force personnel. (Control Risks, May 31, 2001)

BOLIVIA

-	Farmers' union threatens further action for July 1

Leader of the Bolivian Confederation of Rural Workers' Unions (CSUTCB) Felipe Quispe on Monday, May 28, warned of renewed direct action after July 1. The warning comes over the government's inability to keep promises that it made to end the previous round of protests that paralyzed much of the country between April 9 and May 3. This inability will cause further protests and social unrest will remain high. If the main trades union confederation the Bolivian Workers Confederation (COB) fails to receive concessions from the government on its separate demands, protests are likely to once again make travel and communication extremely difficult. The COB has shown recently that it has the organizational power to cause major disturbances when it chooses, though these are largely peaceful. Protests are likely to continue until a satisfactory solution can be found. (Control Risks, May 30, 2001)

BRAZIL

-	Veteran political leader resigns from Senate, attacks government

Veteran political leader and key government ally Ant?nio Carlos Magalh?es of the centre-right Liberal Front Party (PFL) resigned his Senate (Upper House) seat on Wednesday, May 30, rather than face expulsion over allegations of breaking the secrecy of a Senate vote. The government hopes that such a high-profile resignation will satisfy opposition parties who have been pushing for a full congressional inquiry into high-level corruption allegations. However, as corruption will become a key campaign issue, it remains to be seen whether several key pro-business reforms that are currently before Congress will be passed before campaigning begins in earnest. Magalh?es may now be tempted to reveal his extensive knowledge of public corruption and he is unlikely to back the coalition candidate in the 2002 presidential election. Travel Up to 50,000 people are expected to demonstrate on May 31 and June 1 in the central Lago de Pelourinho area of Salvador (Bahia state) in support of Magalh?es. Business travelers should expect some disruption to transport and avoid demonstrations if possible, because of possible criminal activity. (Control Risks, May 31, 2001)

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

-	U.S. State Department Travel Warning

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer travel to the Central African Republic due to the uncertain security situation following an attempted coup in the capital city of Bangui. On May 28, military forces loyal to former President Kolingba launched an attack on a number of government and military installations. There are reports of sporadic fighting in Bangui and its suburbs; other regions of the Central African Republic remain calm.  Bangui's international airport is under government control but is closed to regularly scheduled commercial air service. Although the conflict does not appear to be directed toward U.S. citizens or the general civilian population, the U.S. Embassy has advised U.S. citizens in Bangui to review their personal security situations and to remain in their homes until the situation stabilizes. The Embassy has temporarily suspended operations to the public, and its ability to provide consular assistance to U.S. citizens in the Central African Republic is severely limited. American citizens needing emergency assistance should contact the Embassy by calling (236) 61-0200. For further information on travel to the Central African Republic, consult the Department's latest Consular Information Sheet for the Central African Republic available via the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. (U.S. State Department, May 30, 2001)

-	Nationwide curfew, military operations in southern Bangui follow attempted coup

President Ange Felix Patasse declared a curfew in the capital Bangui on Monday, May 28, following the suppression of an attempted coup. Reports on the morning of May 29 suggested that automatic weapon fire was taking place amid continuing military operations in southern Bangui. Personnel should maintain a low profile and where possible remain indoors, observing the terms of a nationwide 6:00 am to 6:00 pm curfew. All visits to the south of the capital, and to the vicinity of the presidential residence at which the coup attempt took place, should be postponed until the level of uncertainty has decreased. The possibility of further fighting and instability is credible. The reports of shots being fired in southern Bangui on May 29 almost certainly reflect the security forces' efforts to eliminate the source of the coup attempt. Business travelers scheduled to visit Bangui may wish to defer travel until the situation stabilizes. (Control Risks, May 29, 2001)

CHILE

-	Major crimes up sharply

Serious crimes increased significantly in Chile during the first trimester of 2001 compared to the same period in 2000. The number of reports of violent assault rose 42.4 percent while cases of murder or rape rose 51 and 42 percent respectively. Robberies rose by 10 percent while burglaries increased 18 percent. Overall, crimes against persons rose 43.6 percent, while crimes against property rose by 12.9 percent. The year before, assaults had risen by 31.7 percent in 2000 over 1999. Santiago and its suburbs were the areas hit hardest by the increases in crime. The number of arrests also rose, but by smaller percentages. Chile remains one of the safest countries for visitors in Latin America. Nonetheless, as these statistics demonstrate, the rate of crime is increasing in Chile. Victims who do not resist are usually not harmed. Street crime is a problem in metropolitan Santiago in general and specifically in the city center. In 1999, thirty-eight people were killed in robbery attempts; of these 23 were shot, 11 were stabbed, and four were killed with blunt objects. (Pinkerton, May 30, 2001)

COLOMBIA

-	Attack leaves eight dead

On Wednesday, May 30, approximately eight people were killed in the northern village of Los Tupes when a group of armed men dressed in camouflage threw grenades at homes during an early morning attack. The region has a heavy National Liberation Army (ELN) presence. (Air Security, May 31, 2001)

-	Small bomb attacks in Cali continue fears of urban terrorist campaign

Two small bombs exploded in Cali in the early hours of Sunday, May 27, injuring one man. The first device exploded outside a suburban police station. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks though government and security force installations are favored targets of leftist insurgent groups. The spate of recent car bombings and attempted car bombings has raised fears of an urban terrorism campaign similar to that mounted in the later 1980s and early 1990s by the large drug cartels. Consequently, security has been stepped up in Bogota, Medellin, Cali and other urban areas. Business personnel face a credible risk of incidental exposure to such attacks. Personnel should remain vigilant at all times and (especially in Cali and Medellin) may wish to limit their activities in central areas, above all in high-profile commercial and entertainment venues which appear to be favored targets. (Control Risks, May 29, 2001)

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

-	Violent protests raise concerns of prolonged unrest

Residents of Licey al Medio on Tuesday, May 29, used strike action and roadblocks to protest at the jailing of Victor Breton, spokesman for the Broad Front for the Popular Struggle (FALPO), and other leaders from the northern town of Naverrete. FALPO threatened to continue protests if the jailed leaders are not released. The protests follow demonstrations in the northern Santiago region and renewed violence in the Capotillo suburb of Santo Domingo. Deteriorating economic conditions are likely to provoke further protests. Recurrent social unrest will raise concerns among foreign businesses operating in the Dominican Republic and could deter investment. The escalation of civil unrest comes as the government hopes to attract foreign investment in the reopening of the Pueblo Viejo goldmine. While unrest is unlikely to delay the project, political and economic instability could deter investors. (Control Risks, May 30, 2001)

GABON

-	Consular Information Sheet update

The U.S. State Department Consular Information Sheet update for Gabon has been revised to update the sections on Entry/Exit Requirements, Crime, Safety and Security, Medical Insurance, Traffic Safety and Road Conditions, Aviation Safety Oversight and to add the section on Currency Information, replacing the Consular Information Sheet dated June 23, 2000. (U.S. State Department, May 25, 2001)

HONG KONG

-	Cathay Pacific pilots threaten strike action from July 1

Cathay Pacific pilots are scheduled to meet on June 20 to decide on whether to take industrial action from July 1. Strike action in July is likely to cause extensive disruption to the busy holiday air traffic. Personnel intending to fly with the airline should monitor the situation and be prepared to change their flight arrangements. (Control Risks, May 31, 2001)

INDONESIA

-	Legislators vote to impeach president

Indonesian lawmakers voted on Wednesday, May 30, overwhelmingly to seek a special meeting of the Peoples' Consultative Assembly (MPR) that would have the power to impeach President Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur). Security forces were on full alert in Gus Dur's East Java stronghold, where thousands of loyalists have clashed with police and vandalized buildings linked to his opponents. Since the most likely date for the MPR to convene is early August, these developments leave the current government in limbo. The most likely scenario is that the MPR will vote to impeach the president and install Vice-President Megawati Sukarnoputri as his successor. Frustrated in their attempt to stop the legislative vote, the president's supporters are likely to step up the pressure on their political foes by engaging in more violent demonstrations, particularly in East Java. Although major instability is unlikely, foreign personnel should remain vigilant because events may lead to an escalation in the security situation at short notice. Jakarta and East Java were tense but calm on May 31 following the impeachment. Protests remain likely in Jakarta and Gus Dur's heartland of Surabaya and other parts of East Java over the next few days. Control Risks continues to advise that business personnel undertake essential travel only to these areas. (Control Risks, May 31, 2001)

ISRAEL

-	Palestinian extremists "kidnap" later release U.S. and British journalists

A British photographer and an American journalist have been released after being detained by Palestinian group calling itself the Fatah Hawks. The pair was held for five hours in south Gaza, along with a local translator and driver. The group described the detention as a kidnapping, undertaken to protest against the British and US governments, who they accuse of supporting the Israeli government, as well against what they claimed was biased western media coverage of the Palestinians in their confrontation with the Israelis. The group also warned that other British and American citizens in Palestinian areas might be kidnapped or killed in the future. The official Fatah movement has condemned the action and disassociated itself from the incident. The photographer said he and his colleague, chief of Newsweek's Jerusalem bureau, had arranged an interview with the Fatah Hawks for midday on May 29 and after about an hour of talking they were informed they had been kidnapped. "They said the kidnap was largely symbolic," he said. "It was to send a message to Bush and Blair that they held them responsible for the situation of the Palestinian people and once that message had been broadcast we would be released. Apart from the striking demonstration of ineptness in dealing with western media, the incident is also indicative of the growing radicalization of the Palestinians and the proliferation of ever more extreme splinter groups. Palestinian Administration Chairman Yasser Arafat appears increasingly unable to control both his own Fatah subordinates and these young extremists effectively and for sustained periods. Arafat has obtained no concessions from the Israelis who, under Prime Minister Sharon, have also retracted key territorial concessions for an eventual Palestinian state that had been offered by his predecessor Ehud Barak. Indeed, on May 29 the Israelis announced approval of construction bids for 496 new housing units in settlements outside Jerusalem. (Pinkerton, May 30, 2001)

-	Bomb placed on major Tel Aviv-Jerusalem highway; Netanya again targeted for bombing 

On Tuesday night, May 29, a road maintenance crew discovered a bomb on the major highway between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The bomb consisted of a gas canister that was connected to a timing device. The bomb exploded as police officers were preparing to dismantle it, using a remote-controlled robot. Authorities had to close the highway temporarily. It was the first time that a bomb had been placed along this highway and the incident represented another escalation in the violence related to the Palestinian uprising. On Wednesday, May 30, an explosion occurred in an industrial area located in the eastern part of the city of Netanya. Two people were injured in the incident, which, according to a police official, appeared to be a terrorist attack. Netanya is located near the Palestinian-controlled town of Tulqarm and has witnessed terrorist attacks in the past, most recently on May 18, 2001, when a suicide bomber set off an explosion outside a shopping mall in the city. In two other separate incidents yesterday, Palestinian gunmen killed three Jewish settlers in ambushes near Nablus, located in the northern part of the West Bank, and near Bethlehem. Both attacks occurred in areas of the West Bank designated as Area C, meaning that they are under full Israeli control. Elements on the right of the Israeli political spectrum are putting renewed pressure on Prime Minister Ariel Sharon to end the unilateral cease-fire he declared last week and retaliate against the Palestinians. Thus far, however, Sharon has insisted that he will continue to exercise restraint. (Air Security, May 30, 2001)

-	Risk ratings reduced in West Bank, Gaza

Control Risks has reassessed the travel and security risks in the West Bank and Gaza and has reduced the risks from EXTREME to HIGH. Although the conflict between militant Palestinian activists and Israeli military forces continues and is not expected to end in the foreseeable future, it is confined to certain locations and does not generally affect foreign business personnel in the occupied territories. Gun battles generally take place in areas near Israeli settlements or roads leading to the settlements, and clashes sometimes take place at Israeli military posts near Palestinian refugee camps. Essential business travel to most Palestinian towns, including Ramallah, Nablus, Jenin and Gaza City, is possible with appropriate planning, including co-ordination with contacts inside the towns to ascertain the current situation at roadblocks and potential flashpoints. (Control Risks, May 29, 2001)

NEPAL

-	Consular Information Sheet update

The U.S. State Department Consular Information Sheet update for Nepal has been revised to expand information on Safety/Security, Entry/Requirements, Traffic Safety and Road Conditions, and Medical Insurance, replacing the Consular Information Sheet for Nepal dated October 18, 2000. (U.S. State Department, May 31, 2001)

NICARAGAUA

-	Protests over transport price rise to escalate

Protests on Tuesday, May 29, caused widespread damage and travel disruption in the capital Managua. Student and National Workers' Front (FNT) opposition to transport union-mandated public transport fare increases prompted roadblocks. Eighteen buses were damaged, with one set alight. Negotiations between students and transport union representatives on May 29 resolved little and protests are expected to continue. Business travelers are advised to avoid these areas and all demonstrations as the protests can be violent, and should avoid using public transport because of the increased risk of petty crime. There are likely to be travel disruptions in the city center. (Control Risks, May 30, 2001)

NIGERIA

-	Doctors' strike
 
The President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), who led the doctors' team in failed negotiations with the government over pay increases, announced the beginning of a long-threatened and indefinite strike on Tuesday, May 29. On May 30, doctors in federal health institutions formally joined the nationwide strike, and scores of patients reportedly were unable to receive treatment at the Lagos University Teaching hospital (LUTH) and the National Orthopedic Hospital (NOHL) also in Lagos. Public service salaries and wages continue to be well below meeting basic living costs, prompting frequent threats of strikes or actual strikes that usually are ended by government compromises entailing partial increases. The strikes point up the economic problems confronting President Obasanjo. (Pinkerton, May 31, 2001)

PAKISTAN

-	Mass redundancies at PIA likely to lead to flight disruptions

The Board of Directors of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) approved plans on Tuesday, May 29, to suspend trade union activities ahead of making an estimated 4,000 workers redundant in June. If the mass redundancies are formally announced - a process that will take place on June 6 - it is likely that industrial action will take place, causing disruption to domestic and international PIA flights. Travelers should anticipate delays if the redundancy plan is implemented. (Control Risks, May 31, 2001)

PHILIPPINES

-	Manila imposes news blackout on resort kidnappings

On Tuesday, May 29, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo imposed a news blackout on Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) operations against Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) rebels who kidnapped 20 persons, including three Americans, from the Dos Palmas beach resort off Palawan early May 27. She announced the blackout at her weekly news conference just hours after the ASG threatened a mass killing of the hostages if the military launched an assault on its bases in the south. The same day, a spokesman for the US Department of State called for the unconditional release of all the hostages, including the three Americans among them. Asked if Washington shared Manila's position of not paying the kidnappers, and promising to use force to free them, the spokesman said, "I think everyone is familiar with our policy, which is against paying ransom." (Pinkerton, May 30, 2001)

-	U.S. State Department Public Announcement

A series of security-related incidents has made travel unsafe in certain areas of the Philippines. Violence during recent political demonstrations, kidnappings of foreigners, and bombing incidents call for Americans to exercise extreme caution throughout the Philippines. A group of tourists, including Americans, were kidnapped from a resort on Palawan Island on May 27 by unknown gunmen using boats. A similar incident was foiled with the loss of several Filipino lives at a resort on Samal Island, Davao del Norte on May 22, 2001. While no one has claimed responsibility for these incidents, the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group (ASG) has taken hostage a number of Filipinos and foreign tourists since April 2000. Some of these hostages were killed by their captors. In August 2000, the same group took credit for kidnapping a U.S. citizen. There is concern that the ASG or other groups may take additional actions against U.S. citizens and other foreigners. Americans should exercise great caution when considering travel to resorts on Mindanao and Palawan. Violent political demonstrations on May 1 in the Malacanang area of Manila reportedly left two police officers and several protesters dead. Although the violence has been brought under control, the possibility exists of further such demonstrations. In late December 2000, a series of bombs exploded in the Metro Manila area, including the cargo terminal at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), on December 30, 2000, killing 18 people and injuring 100. There have also been sporadic incidents of violence in southern Mindanao, including bombings in General Santos City and at the Cotabato Airport in Maguindanao Province, as well as bus hijackings on national highways. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front reportedly has claimed responsibility for these actions. U.S. citizens are strongly cautioned to avoid all travel to the southern and western areas of the Island of Mindanao, to include Zamboanga City, due to incidents of terrorism and violence. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to the islands of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Jolo located in the Sulu archipelago in the extreme southwest of the Philippines. American citizens should exercise great caution when considering travel to resorts in other parts of Mindanao as well as Palawan. For other information on terrorist activities in this region, refer to the Department of State's Public Announcement on Malaysia dated April 9, 2001. In view of these incidents, and the possibility of future attacks, Americans are also urged to be particularly cautious in outdoor public areas and not approach or linger in the vicinity of a bomb-related incident. Americans are cautioned not to disturb suspicious objects or packages and should report any incidents to local authorities. If you are involved in or observe a bomb incident, immediately notify the Embassy. For further general information on travel to the Philippines, consult the Department's latest Consular Information Sheet for the Philippines, which is available via the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. This Public Announcement supersedes the Public Announcement of May 3, 2001 to provide updated security information and it expires September 5, 2001. (U.S. State Department, May 27, 2001)

SOUTH AFRICA

-	Security, business revival foreseen in Johannesburg Central Business District

Gauteng Province Finance and Economic Affairs representative Jabu Moleketi on Tuesday, May 29, forecast that within three years Johannesburg's Central Business District (CBD) would experience a boom in business and property values. The city's business and security community cautiously endorses the provincial government's optimistic forecast, which reflects a gradual decrease in crime levels in the CBD. Control Risks continues to advise that where possible businesses should focus their operations in, and travelers should stay in hotels in, the safer northern suburbs such as Sandton. However, the gradual reduction in the incidence of crime in the CBD, lower property prices and problems with logistics and traffic circulation in the northern suburbs means that a revival in business interest in central property is likely to take place gradually. (Control Risks, May 30, 2001)

SWEDEN

-	U.S. State Department Public Announcement

The city of Gothenburg in western Sweden will host two major international summit meetings June 14 -16. Local authorities estimate that at least ten thousand demonstrators may be present before and during the summit meeting period. As at past international meetings, there is a potential that some of the demonstrators may become disorderly or violent. Local officials are working to minimize the potential for disruption. Access to certain areas of the city, including some well-known tourist sites, will be closed to the general public. Travelers to Gothenburg may also experience delays due to restricted traffic movement through certain areas. U.S. citizens should exercise caution, avoid any crowds or demonstrations and monitor local media to keep informed. The U.S. Embassy in Stockholm is located at Dag Hammerskjoldsvag 31, telephone (46)(8) 783-5300, Fax: (46)(8) 660-5879 and after-hours telephone (46)(8) 783-5310. For further information regarding travel to Sweden, please consult the Department of State's latest Consular Information Sheet, which is available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. This Public Announcement expires on June 19, 2001. (U.S. State Department, May 29, 2001)

TAJIKISTAN

-	US embassy reissues warning against travel

The US on Wednesday, May 30, renewed its warning that US citizens should not travel to Tajikistan in the face of a possible attack from Islamic militants. The warning underlines Control Risks long-standing advice about the risks of travel to Tajikistan. Fighters for the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) are currently preparing for annual summer attacks into Uzbekistan and Kyrygzstan as mountain passes clear. Hence, Control Risks has raised the security and travel risks in Tavildera district in central Tajikistan, where the IMU is currently based, and the border areas with Kyrgyzstan to EXTREME from HIGH. The Garm district, where the IMU has long been based, and the Afghan border are also at EXTREME security and travel risk. Control Risks continues to advise against travel to these areas during the coming months. (Control Risks, May 30, 2001)

-	U.S. State Department Travel Warning

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer all travel to Tajikistan. Due to threats to Americans and American interests worldwide, instability in Tajikistan, and the limited ability to secure the safety of embassy personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe in their current facility, the Department of State suspended Embassy operations there and temporarily relocated all American diplomatic personnel to Almaty, Kazakhstan in September 1998. Although the political climate has improved, the situation remains unpredictable. During the summer periods of 1999 and 2000, Tajikistan experienced incursions of armed militants loyal to the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), which the Secretary of State has designated as a foreign terrorist organization. In both years, IMU forces took foreigners hostage. There have been reports indicating an incursion by the IMU into Tajikistan may occur again this year. Americans should in particular avoid areas along the borders with Afghanistan and Kyrgyzstan, the Karategin Valley, and Tavildara District. The "suspended operations" status of the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe has been lifted, with U.S. Embassy American personnel currently residing in Almaty, Kazakhstan traveling periodically to Tajikistan. Consular services for Tajikistan are handled in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Almaty and emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Tajikistan may be limited or unavailable. American citizens resident in Tajikistan are urged to consider their personal security and safety in view of this warning. For further information concerning travel to Tajikistan consult the latest Consular Information Sheet for Tajikistan, available on the World Wide Web at http://travel.state.gov. This Travel Warning replaces the Travel Warning for Tajikistan issued August 30, 2000, to update the security situation. (U.S. State Department, May 29, 2001)

VENEZUELA

-	Coup rumors circulating freely

An anonymous ad in the conservative Washington Times on Thursday, May 24, has stimulated new rumors of a military coup d'etat against populist President Hugo Chavez. The ad said that a "National Emergency Junta" was seeking Chavez's immediate resignation. It accused Chavez of being responsible for the high level of insecurity in the country, for the economic crisis, for making military personnel work on civilian projects, for corruption, and for supporting a covert Cuban communist intervention in the country. Since the ad rumors of military plots have circulated so widely that Chavez, currently on a visit to China, felt he had to address the country to denounce the rumors. His Minister of Defense, widely unpopular with the military, said the government knew who was trying to destabilize the country, charging that the plotters were counting on US government support, but he knew that Washington would never support a coup because it was not interested in "adventures" of this type. Local analysts state that there is clearly considerable anti-Chavez sentiment among various levels of the military and the upper classes. Moreover, Chavez's recent talk of declaring a state of emergency, which would give him even greater powers, has provided additional ammunition to anyone disposed to a military takeover. However, one can safely presume that Washington, despite its differences with Chavez, would not support any effort to overthrow Venezuela's democratically elected president. (Pinkerton, May 31, 2001)

WORLDWIDE CAUTION 

-	U.S. State Department Public Announcement

The U.S. Government learned in early May 2001 that American citizens abroad might be the target of a terrorist threat from extremist groups with links to Usama Bin Ladin's Al-Qaida organization. In the past, such individuals have not distinguished between official and civilian targets. As always, we take this information seriously. U.S. Government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert. On May 29, the defendants in the case of U.S. v. Bin Ladin were found guilty on a number of counts in connection with the bombings of the U.S. Embassies in Nairobi, Kenya and Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. The U.S. Government is not aware of any specific threat in response to the verdicts. Nevertheless, U.S. citizens are urged to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness to reduce their vulnerability. Americans should maintain a low profile, vary routes and times for all required travel, and treat mail and packages from unfamiliar sources with suspicion. In addition, American citizens are also urged to avoid contact with any suspicious, unfamiliar objects, and to report the presence of the objects to local authorities. Vehicles should not be left unattended, if at all possible, and should be kept locked at all times. U.S. Government personnel overseas have been advised to take the same precautions. In addition, U.S. Government facilities have and will continue to temporarily close or suspend public services as necessary to review their security posture and ensure its adequacy. U.S. citizens planning to travel abroad should consult the Department of State's Public Announcements, Travel Warnings, Consular Information Sheets, and regional travel brochures, all of which are available at the Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov. We will continue to provide updated information should it become available. American citizens overseas may contact the American Citizens Services unit of the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate by telephone or fax for up-to-date information on security conditions. In addition, American citizens in need of emergency assistance should telephone the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate before visiting the Embassy or Consulate. This Public Announcement supersedes the Public Announcement - Worldwide Caution of May 11, 2001 to inform Americans of the verdict in U.S. v. Bin Ladin. This Public Announcement expires on August 29, 2001. (U.S. State Department, May 29, 2001)

WORLDWIDE TERRORIST THREATS

-	Embassy bombing convictions unlikely to lead to retaliation against business targets

A New York (US) jury on Tuesday, May 29, found four men guilty of conspiring with Saudi-born Islamic extremist Osama bin Laden to bomb the US embassies in Nairobi (Kenya) and Dar es-Salaam (Tanzania) in 1998. Although all four face life in prison without parole, two defendants may face the death penalty. Islamic extremist groups associated with bin Laden may plan retaliatory attacks in response to the verdicts. Should the two receive the death penalty, their date of execution would provide a date around which attacks might be expected. The bin Laden networks focus on US and British military, diplomatic and defense company targets. Those facilities and personnel in the Arabian peninsula have faced a MEDIUM security risk since October 2000. However, the networks are unlikely to target business interests in retaliation. Tourist targets are also unlikely to be targeted, with the exception of tourist sites in Jordan. (Control Risks, May 30, 2001)

ZIMBABWE

-	Departing travelers face currency confiscation

The commissioner of the Zimbabwe Department of Customs and Excise Ranga Munyaradzi conceded on Wednesday, May 30, that a large amount of foreign currency has been seized from travelers leaving the country at both Harare international airport and the Beitbridge land border crossing. A rarely publicized law relating to maximum cash removal is being enforced against all individuals attempting to depart with sums of cash in excess of $500 or its equivalent in other foreign currency. Travelers are advised to take foreign currency out of Zimbabwe in the form of traveler's cheques, which are not subject to any limit. (Control Risks, May 31, 2001)

PLANNING AHEAD

-  MAY 30 - 31

INDONESIA
Leaders of 15 developing nations will hold their eleventh G-15 annual summit in Jakarta. Security levels will be increased around the city. Several interest groups seeking recognition and media coverage are expected to hold demonstrations and protests for the duration of the event. The summit coincides with the deadline for president Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur) respond to the National Assembly's second censure motion, which is likely to increase tensions around the city. Foreign visitors are strongly advised to avoid all rallies, protests and concentrations of security force personnel. 

-  JUNE 3-4

CHINA/HONG KONG
Anniversary of Tiananmen Square massacre (1989): security is increased in major cities to discourage demonstrations.

-  JUNE 3

PERU
Second round of presidential elections scheduled. Disruption expected but violence unlikely.

-  JUNE 3-5

COSTA RICA
Protests are possible during an Organization of American States (OAS) meeting in San Jose. Business visitors are advised to avoid all demonstrations to minimize their exposure to incidental violence. 
 
-  JUNE 4

IRAN, LEBANON
Death of Imam Khomeini (1989): demonstrations likely.

-  JUNE 4

UNITED KINGDOM
A strike on London Underground (subway) will lead to severe congestion in central London.

-  JUNE 6

INDIA
Anniversary of storming of Sikh Golden Temple in Amritsar (1984): increased risk of Sikh terrorism in Delhi, Punjab.

-  JUNE 6

ISRAEL & GAZA/WEST BANK
Anniversary of beginning of Six-Day War (1967), Israeli occupation of West Bank, Gaza Strip, East Jerusalem: strikes, unrest in the occupied territories and East Jerusalem likely.

-  JUNE 6

UNITED KINGDOM
A strike on London Underground (subway) will lead to severe congestion in central London.

-  JUNE 7

UNITED KINGDOM
Local and national general elections to be held in England and Wales.

-  JUNE 8
 
IRAN
Presidential elections scheduled.

-  JUNE 16 - 17

SLOVENIA
US President George W Bush, Russian President Vladimir Putin to meet in Ljubljana. Security will be tight as protests and disruption are likely.

-  JUNE 16

TURKEY
Anniversary of general strike (1970): left-wing terrorist attacks on Turkish state targets possible.
  
-  JUNE 17

BULGARIA
General elections scheduled.

-  JUNE 19

PERU
Leftist Shining Path (SL) prison riots (1986): terrorists may mark with extra propaganda activity, occasionally with bombings.

-  JUNE 23 - 24

ZIMBABWE
Mayoral elections in Bulawayo. Violence and intimidation likely up to and during the polls. 
 
-  JUNE 24

ALBANIA
Parliamentary elections scheduled. Some disturbances are likely in the period before and after the poll. Demonstrations could turn violent and could target foreign representatives, who are perceived to be pro-government.

-  JUNE 24

CANADA
Quebec's 'national' holiday St Jean Baptiste Day: Quebec nationalist demonstrations occasionally prompt disturbances in Montreal.

-  JULY 

UK (Northern Ireland)
The marching season: Protestant marches may provoke sectarian violence and attacks on security forces, particularly on July 7 and 12.

-  JULY 1

BOLIVIA
A farmers' union has threatened to stage further action. Business travelers are advised to avoid protests and marches. 

-  JULY 1

CHINA, HONG KONG
Anniversary of founding of Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Protests by outlawed Falungong sect possible. 

-  JULY 7

TAIWAN
Anniversary of founding of Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Protests by outlawed Falungong sect possible. 

-  JULY 11

NIGERIA
Court in Abuja to rule on distribution of oil revenue; protests likely in southern oil-producing states.

-  JULY 20 

CYPRUS
Anniversary of Turkish invasion of northern Cyprus in 1974: demonstrations likely in Greek-speaking Cyprus, particularly in Nicosia and along border.

-  JULY 20 - 22

ITALY
G8 summit of eight leading industrialized nations in Genoa. Anti-globalization and anti-capitalism protests likely.

-  JULY 22

CHINA
Anniversary of the banning of Falungong sect. Protests possible. 

-  JULY 25

SRI LANKA
Anniversary of anti-Tamil rioting in 1983: Tamil attacks on government, military targets likely in north and northeast, possible in Colombo.

-  JULY 28

PERU
Independence Day: terrorists may mark with extra propaganda activity, occasionally with bombings.

-  SEPTEMBER 23

POLAND
Parliamentary elections scheduled.