Warden Messages are issued from the Department of State about safety or travel information for U.S. citizens abroad. Warden messages may be issued worldwide, regionally, or just in one specific country. The Consular Office and our Wardens attempt to contact all registered U.S. citizens when Warden Messages are issued. Contact the Consular Office if you are interested in volunteering your services as a Warden to help the Embassy communicate emergency messages quickly.

Escalating Violence in Kachin State

The Embassy advises all U.S. citizens to avoid travel to Kachin State. Recent military actions in Kachin State by the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the Burmese Army have endangered the lives of civilians and reflect escalating violence in the region.

Ongoing hostilities in Kachin State may lead to demonstrations in Rangoon and elsewhere. Please keep in mind that even demonstrations that are meant to be peaceful can become violent and unpredictable. While in public areas, stay alert and aware of the people around you at all times. Stay clear of all demonstrations or public gatherings. If you see something suspicious, report it to the U.S. Embassy or local authorities if possible and leave the area.

We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Burma enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.Travel.State.Gov. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Regularly monitor the State Department's website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Burma. For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.

Contact the U.S. Embassy in Rangoon for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.

The U.S. Embassy in Rangoon is located at 110 University Avenue, Kamayut Township, and is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. M-F. The Embassy Telephone is (95)-(1)-536-509. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy is (95)-(9)-512-4330. If calling the 24 Hour Embassy Telephone, explain that you want to speak to the Duty Officer or a Consular Officer.

Security Message for U.S. Citizens
Ongoing Violence in Rakhine State

While there are no known specific threats against U.S. citizens, the Embassy advises all U.S. citizens to avoid travel to Rakhine State. The Rakhine State government confirmed media accounts of communal violence in Minbya Township in Rakhine State starting on October 21. Other sources indicate that violence has spread to Mrauk U, Kyauk Phyu, and Myebon townships.

Ongoing sectarian violence in Rakhine State has resulted in demonstrations in Rangoon and elsewhere. Though these demonstrations have been mostly non-violent, even demonstrations that are meant to be peaceful can become violent and unpredictable. While in public areas, stay alert and aware of the people around you at all times. Stay clear of all demonstrations or public gatherings. If you see something suspicious, report it to local authorities if possible and leave the area.

We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Burma enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.Travel.State.Gov. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Regularly monitor the State Department's website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Burma. For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.

Contact the U.S. Embassy in Rangoon for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.

The U.S. Embassy in Rangoon is located at 110 University Avenue, Kamayut Township, and is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. M-F. The Embassy Telephone is (95)-(1)-536-509. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy is (95)-(9)-512-4330. If calling the 24 Hour Embassy Telephone, explain that you want to speak to the Duty Officer or a Consular Officer.

Security Message to United States Citizens
Protests in Downtown Rangoon beginning Friday, June 15, 2012

The sectarian violence in Rakhine State over the last week has resulted in strong feelings on many sides with calls for demonstrations in Rangoon beginning June 15, 2012. A small demonstration that took place on June 14, 2012 outside the UK Embassy was peaceful and marked by a large police presence.

While there are no known specific threats against U.S. citizens, you are advised to avoid downtown Rangoon south of Dama Zedi/Shwe Gon Tain roads from June 15 through June 17, 2012.

While in public areas, stay alert and aware of the people around you at all times. Stay clear of all demonstrations or public gatherings. If you see something suspicious, report it to the U.S. Embassy or local authorities if possible and leave the area. Even demonstrations that are meant to be peaceful can become violent and unpredictable.

The safety and well-being of U S. citizens in Burma is the U.S. Embassy’s primary concern. Consular Officers and staff are ready to assist in the event of an emergency. The Embassy’s 24 Hour Duty Officer Telephone is (95)-(9)-512-4330. The 24 Hour Embassy Telephone is (95)-(1)-536-509. If calling the 24 Hour Embassy Telephone, explain that you want to speak to the Duty Officer or a Consular Officer.

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State’s Consular Affairs website at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings and health-information resources 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 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Violence in Rakhine and Kachin States Poses Potential Threats to U.S. Citizen Travelers

The U.S. Embassy in Rangoon urges all U.S. citizens to avoid travel to Kachin and Rakhine States because of escalating violence in these areas.

In Rakhine State, situated on the border of Bangladesh in southwest Burma, sectarian violence on June 8 and June 9 reportedly left many local residents dead and hundreds homeless. Violence between Buddhists and Muslims is said to be centered around Rakhine State’s capital, Sittwe, and in other northern areas of Rakhine State, including Maungdaw and Buthidaung townships. Burmese state media reported that on June 10, President Thein Sein declared a state of emergency and curfews in response to the violence.

In Kachin State, in northern Burma on the border of China, armed clashes between the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the Burmese Army have been ongoing since June 2011 and have reportedly displaced up to 100,000 people. The violence continues to affect civilians; on April 29, 2012, an improvised explosive device exploded on a passenger train bound for Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin State, injuring two people.

The safety and well-being of U S. citizens in Burma is the U.S. Embassy’s primary concern. Consular Officers and staff are ready to assist in the event of an emergency. The Embassy’s 24 Hour Duty Officer Telephone is (95)-(9)-512-4330. The 24 Hour Embassy Telephone is (95)-(1)-536-509. If calling the 24 Hour Embassy Telephone, explain that you want to speak to the Duty Officer or a Consular Officer.

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State’s Consular Affairs website at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings and health-information resources 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 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Worldwide Caution

1. The Department of State has issued this Worldwide Caution to update information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world. U.S. citizens are reminded to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. This replaces the Worldwide Caution dated January 24, 2012, to provide updated information on security threats and terrorist activities worldwide.

2. The Department of State remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, and other violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests overseas. Current information suggests that al-Qaida, its affiliated organizations, and other terrorist organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks against U.S. interests in multiple regions, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics including suicide operations, assassinations, kidnappings, hijackings, and bombings.

3. Extremists may elect to use conventional or non- conventional weapons, and target both official and private interests. Examples of such targets include high-profile sporting events, residential areas, business offices, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, public areas, and other tourist destinations both in the United States and abroad where U.S. citizens gather in large numbers, including during holidays.

4. U.S. citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure. Extremists have targeted and attempted attacks on subway and rail systems, aviation, and maritime services. In the past, these types of attacks have occurred in cities such as Moscow, London, Madrid, Glasgow, and New York City.

5. EUROPE: Current information suggests that al-Qaida, its affiliated organizations and other terrorist groups continue to plan terrorist attacks against U.S. and Western interests in Europe. European governments have taken action to guard against terrorist attacks, and some have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions. In the past several years, attacks have been planned or occurred in various European cities.

6. MIDDLE EAST and NORTH AFRICA: Credible information indicates terrorist groups also seek to continue attacks against U.S. interests in the Middle East and North Africa. For example, Iraq remains dangerous and unpredictable. U.S. military forces were withdrawn as of December 31, 2011 but the threat of attacks against U.S. citizens, including kidnapping and terrorist violence, is expected to continue. Methods of attack have included roadside improvised explosive devices, mortars, and shootings. Terrorist organizations continue to be active in Yemen, including al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). A U.S. citizen was attacked and killed in Taiz on March 18 and the press reports that AQAP claimed responsibility. Security threat levels remain high in Yemen due to terrorist activities there and the U.S. government remains highly concerned about possible attacks against U.S. citizens, facilities, businesses, and perceived U.S. and Western interests. U.S. citizens have also been the targets of numerous terrorist attacks in Lebanon in the past (though none recently) and the threat of anti-Western terrorist activity continues to exist there. In Algeria, terrorist attacks occur regularly, particularly in the Kabylie region of the country. In the past, terrorists have targeted oil processing facilities in both Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Some elements in Iran remain hostile to the United States. U.S. citizens should remain cautious and be aware that there may be a more aggressive focus by the Iranian government on terrorist activity against U.S citizens.

7. The events of last year's Arab Spring, which affected many countries in the Middle East including Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Bahrain, and Syria, resulted in civil unrest and large-scale protests and demonstrations. U.S. citizens are warned that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can escalate into violent clashes. U.S. citizens are also reminded that demonstrations and riots can occur with little or no warning. U.S. citizens are urged to avoid areas of demonstrations if possible and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of a demonstration.

8. AFRICA: A number of al-Qaida operatives and other extremists are believed to be operating in and around Africa. In February 2012, the emir of U.S-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization al-Shabaab and al-Qaida's leader, Ayman al-Zawahiri, announced the alliance of the two organizations. Al-Shabaab assassinations, suicide bombings, and indiscriminate attacks in civilian- populated areas are frequent in Somalia. The terrorist attacks in Somalia in late 2011 against the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) and African Union (AU) peacekeeping forces in Somalia that have killed numerous civilians in various districts around Mogadishu, as well as at least 17 attacks involving grenades or explosive devices in Kenya over the past year, highlight the vulnerabilities to terrorist attacks in East Africa and around the world. Additionally, the terrorist group al- Qaida in the Lands of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) has declared its intention to attack Western targets throughout the Sahel (which includes Mali, Mauritania, and Niger). It has claimed responsibility for kidnappings, attempted kidnappings, and the murder of several Westerners throughout the region, including southern Algeria. The loosely organized group of factions known as Boko Haram continues to carry out significant improvised explosive device and suicide bombings in northern Nigeria, mainly targeting government forces and innocent civilians; attacks have increased since their attack on the UN building in the capital of Abuja last year. The President of Nigeria declared a state of emergency in certain areas in response to activities of extremist groups.

9. U.S. citizens considering travel by sea near the Horn of Africa or in the southern Red Sea should exercise extreme caution, as there have been armed attacks, robberies, and kidnappings for ransom by pirates. Merchant vessels continue to be hijacked in Somali territorial waters, while others have been hijacked as far as 1,000 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia, Yemen, and Kenya in international waters.

10. The U.S. government maritime authorities advise mariners to avoid the port of Mogadishu and to remain at least 200 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia. In addition, when transiting around the Horn of Africa or in the Red Sea, it is strongly recommended that vessels travel in convoys and maintain good communications at all times. U.S. citizens traveling on commercial passenger vessels should consult with the shipping or cruise ship company regarding precautions that will be taken to avoid hijacking incidents. Commercial vessels should review the Department of Transportation Maritime Administration's Horn of Africa Piracy page for information on maritime advisories, self-protection measures, and naval forces in the region. Review our International Maritime Piracy Fact Sheet for information on piracy in the southern Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Indian Ocean.

11. SOUTH ASIA: The U.S. government continues to receive information that terrorist groups in South Asia may also be planning attacks in the region, possibly against U.S. government facilities, U.S. citizens, or U.S. interests. The presence of al-Qaida, Taliban elements, Lashkar-e-Taiba, indigenous sectarian groups, and other terror organizations, many of which are on the U.S. government's list of Foreign Terror Organizations (FTOs), poses a potential danger to U.S. citizens in the region. Terrorists and their sympathizers have demonstrated their willingness and ability to attack targets where U.S. citizens or Westerners are known to congregate or visit. Their actions may include, but are not limited to, vehicle-born explosive attacks, improvised explosive device attacks, assassinations, carjackings, rocket attacks, assaults, or kidnappings.

12. Such attacks have occurred in a number of South Asian states, including Pakistan, where a number of extremist groups continue to target U.S. and other Western citizens and interests, and Pakistani government and military/law enforcement personnel. Suicide bombing attacks continue to occur throughout the country on a regular basis, often targeting government authorities such as police checkpoints and military installations, as well as public areas such as mosques, and shopping areas. Kidnappings of U.S. citizens are also on the increase. No part of Afghanistan should be considered immune from violence, and the potential exists throughout the country for hostile acts, either targeted or random, against U.S. and other Western nationals at any time. Elements of the Taliban and the al-Qaida terrorist network, as well as other groups hostile to International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) military operations, remain active. There is an ongoing threat of kidnapping and assassination of U.S. citizens and Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) workers throughout the country. India continues to experience terrorist and insurgent activities which may affect U.S. citizens directly or indirectly. Anti-Western terrorist groups, some on the U.S. government's list of designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations, are active in India, including Islamist extremist groups such as Harkat-ul-Jihad-i- Islami, Harakat ul-Mujahidin, Indian Mujahideen, Jaish- e-Mohammed, and Lashkar-e Tayyiba. Terrorists have targeted public places in India frequented by Westerners, including luxury and other hotels, trains, train stations, markets, cinemas, mosques, and restaurants in large urban areas.

13. CENTRAL ASIA: Supporters of terrorist groups such as the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, al-Qaida, the Islamic Jihad Union, and the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement remain active in Central Asia. These groups have expressed anti-U.S. sentiments and may attempt to target U.S. government interests.

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Before You Go
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14. The Department of State encourages U.S. citizens living overseas or planning to travel abroad to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). When you enroll in STEP, we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements. Enrolling will also make it easier for the Embassy to contact you in the event of an emergency. You should remember to keep all of your information in STEP up to date; it is particularly important when you enroll or update your information to include a current phone number and e-mail address.

15. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security. For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad" on our website, http://travel.state.gov/.

16. U.S. government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert. These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public
services to assess their security posture. In those instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.

17. As the Department of State continues to develop information on potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its Consular Information Program documents,
including Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, Country Specific Information, and Emergency Messages, all of which are available on the Bureau of Consular Affairs website at http://travel.state.gov/. Stay up to date by
bookmarking our website or downloading our free Smart Traveler iPhone App for travel information at your+

fingertips. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well.

18. 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 United States and Canada or, from other countries, on a
regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday, Eastern Time (except U.S. federal holidays).

Recent Warden Messages

Embassy of the United States Rangoon, Burma

U.S. Citizen Services

Emergency Messages and Announcements

Violence in Rakhine and Kachin States Poses Potential Threats to U.S. Citizen Travelers

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