Armenia: Authorities evacuate Yerevan Metro stations following bomb threat Aug. 16

Event

Police are responding to bomb threats at Yerevan Metro stations Aug. 16. Authorities received a threat claiming that bombs had been placed at all of the city's metro stations at 10:05. Officers have evacuated all Metro stations and suspended passenger services as they conduct clearance operations. It remains unclear when services will resume.

Metro service disruptions, increased security, and further precautionary evacuations are likely Aug. 16. Metro services suspension may prompt increased demand for alternative public transport.

Context

The Aug. 16 bomb threat is the latest in a series of such incidents in Yerevan in recent weeks. Similar threats earlier in August and July prompted authorities to repeatedly suspend Metro services, shut down Zvartnots International Airport (EVN), shopping malls, and government facilities while police teams searched for explosive devices; all previous threats turned out to be hoaxes.

Disruptive hoaxes are likely to continue in the coming weeks. Precautionary security force reactions, including evacuations and search operations, will probably prompt short-notice and short-term business and public transport disruption.

The motive behind the threats is unknown, and they are possibly being made for a variety of reasons and by a variety of perpetrators, who could have no link to terrorist organizations. Armenia has a low threat of terrorism and no domestic or international militant groups are known to operate in the country.

Advice

Consider alternative transportation options and allow extra time for travel in Yerevan Aug. 16. Strictly heed the instructions of local security personnel. Report any suspicious activity or objects to authorities. Remain courteous and cooperative if stopped and questioned by law enforcement officers.