Cote d'Ivoire: Increased security during Africa Cup of Nations football tournament Jan. 13-Feb. 11

Officials will heighten security nationwide ahead of and during the Africa Cup of Nations football tournament scheduled Jan. 13-Feb. 11. At least 20,000 additional security personnel will be deployed during this period. Security measures will likely be most pronounced in cities hosting football games, particularly on match days. A list of host venues and fixture dates is included below:

• Abidjan: Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium (Jan. 13, 14, 18, 22, 28, Feb. 2, 7, and 11) and Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium (Jan. 14, 18, 19, 24, 27, 29, Feb. 2, and 10)

• Bouake: Stadium of Peace (Jan. 15, 16, 20, 23, 27, Feb. 3, and 7)

• Korhogo: Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium (Jan. 16, 20, 21, 24, and 30)

• San-Pedro: Laurent Pokou Stadium (Jan. 17, 21, 24, 28, and 30)

• Yamoussoukro: Charles Konan Banny Stadium (Jan. 15, 19, 23, 29, and Feb. 3).

The terrorist threat is concentrated in the northern border areas of the country but remains a concern for security forces. Militants may attempt to carry out an attack, including in host cities, during the tournament. There have been no successful terror attacks outside the northern border areas since March 2016, when Islamist militants opened fire in Grand-Bassam resort near Abidjan, killing at least 19 people, including foreign nationals.

Political opposition supporters and other groups may use the occasion to demonstrate. Likely gathering areas are major cities, particularly those hosting games, near government buildings or stadiums. In addition, an increased threat of petty crime is possible during the tournament, including on match days and in the vicinity of large crowds. Stampedes due to overcrowding are also possible.

Officials will almost certainly heighten security at ports of entry, football stadiums, practice arenas, and nearby hotels hosting visiting teams. Checkpoints, additional patrols, and road closures are likely near these areas. Roads may also be closed to facilitate the movement of teams, particularly on routes to stadiums on match days. Short-duration disruptions may occur at airports during the arrival and departure of sports teams, dignitaries, and large supporter groups. Security forces will deploy to mitigate any threats, including demonstrations.