Tunisia: Shooting attack kills several people near El Ghriba Synagogue on Djerba late May 9 /update 1

Event

A heightened security presence is likely in parts of Djerba over the coming hours after a gunman killed at least four people and wounded some nine others on the island late May 9. An updated report provided by the Tunisian Interior Ministry, which specified that the shooting killed two security officers and two visitors, amended initial nongovernmental reporting that suggested that the perpetrator had only killed one security officer. Officials clarified that the assailant, a security officer affiliated with the naval center of the National Guard in Aghir, killed a colleague and then fired at security personnel in the vicinity of the El Ghriba Synagogue, killing one French and one Tunisian visitor and a security officer as well as wounding nine others before security forces killed him in an exchange of fire. Security forces cordoned off the synagogue, where Jewish worshippers were celebrating the Lag BaOmer holiday at the time of the attack, and have secured the area. Authorities did not immediately report a motive for the assault.

Transport and business disruptions are likely near the synagogue over the coming hours.

Advice

Avoid the vicinity of the El Ghriba Synagogue until authorities give the all-clear. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the affected area and any related disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials.