Cote d'Ivoire: US Embassy issues terrorism warning Dec. 9

Event

The US Embassy in Cote d'Ivoire issued an alert Dec. 9 warning of possible threats in and around Abidjan during the holiday season. The alert states that the embassy is aware of credible threats against facilities and venues frequented by westerners in the commercial capital. It is currently unclear if the threats apply to other major cities in the country.

Incidents could target government facilities, hotels, shops, and bars that are frequented by foreign travelers. The alert could also prompt an increased security presence in the vicinity of these sites.

Context

The threat of terrorism is moderate in Cote d'Ivoire. However, security personnel remain on high alert after incidents in areas bordering Burkina Faso in June 2020. The country remains a target for militant groups operating in the Sahel, and foreign governments have issued warnings in the past regarding terror threats. Cote d'Ivoire also supports the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union's operations against Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), as well as other extremist groups in northern Mali, which increases the threat of retaliatory terrorist attacks in Cote d'Ivoire. No known indigenous terror groups operate in Cote d'Ivoire, but AQIM and the Islamic State (IS) militant organization have footprints in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso.

Advice

Monitor for updates on the security situation in Cote d'Ivoire in the coming weeks. Exercise a high degree of caution if traveling in Cote d'Ivoire and heed the instructions of authorities. Maintain a very low profile, restrict nighttime movements, and vary routines. Minimize exposure when at potential targets, including places of worship, security installations, markets, and other crowded locations. Carry proper identification and travel documents at all times. Remain polite and nonconfrontational if stopped at a security checkpoint. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.