Mauritania: UK issues updated terrorism warning November 1

Event

The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) issued an updated terrorism warning, as well as new information regarding the high threat of kidnapping, for Mauritania on Wednesday, November 1. Generally, Mauritania is at an elevated risk of terrorist activity, and terrorists may indiscriminately try to carry out attacks in public places frequented by Western travelers (e.g. beach resorts, hotels, cafes, restaurants). Additionally, terrorist groups pose a high kidnapping threat throughout the country. The FCO advises against all travel to the provinces of Tiris Zemmour (except Zouérat), Adrar (east of Atar), Tagant, Hodh El-Chargui, Hodh El-Gharbi, Assaba, and Guidimaka, and within 25 km (15.5 mi) of the Western Sahara border (except the Noukchott-Nouadhibou corridor).

Context

Mauritania remains vulnerable to the activities of regional terrorist groups, notably the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), a terrorist umbrella organization founded in March 2017 and composed of Al-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), Al-Mourabitoun, and Ansar Dine.

JNIM and associated groups continue to pose a high threat of kidnapping in the country; several foreign hostages remain in JNIM custody in the Sahel region.

Advice

Individuals present in Mauritania should be extremely vigilant and maintain a low profile at all times, particularly in public places and among large gatherings of people.

​Due to the threats of kidnapping or terrorism, it is critical to remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.

As a reminder, many Western governments advise against nonessential travel to the majority of the country, including the capital. All travelers are advised to refrain from travel to the northeastern area of the country.