Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Bangui, Central African Republic (January 3, 2021)
Location: Central African Republic (Nationwide)
Event: Reports of Electoral Violence
The Embassy has received multiple reports that armed groups may continue to disrupt the electoral process in Bangui and nationwide and may seek to move towards Bangui. The National Elections Agency is expected to announce preliminary election results on January 4. Although there have been no specific incidents of violence or threats targeting U.S. citizens, civil unrest, demonstrations, and violence have already occurred, and may recur in the period leading up to, during, and following the election. Out of an abundance of caution, the U.S. Embassy in Bangui decided to limit staff to mission-critical movements starting on January 4 for an indefinite period of time.
Actions to Take:
- For information on what the State Department can and cannot do in a crisis, please read our Frequently Asked Questions.
- Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Have shelter in place plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Monitor local and international media (such as Radio France International and France24) and communiques from the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) for updates.
- Review your personal security plans, be vigilant, and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
- Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization.
- Be prepared to shelter in place at your residence or an alternate safe haven.
- Avoid any areas near demonstrations and crowds.
- Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
- Remain aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.
- Always carry proof of your legal presence in Central African Republic, such as a U.S. passport with a visa, or a residency card.
- For COVID-19 travel information, check travel.state.gov and your planned air carrier for requirements.
- The U.S. Embassy in Bangui does not provide consular services at this time. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde if you need consular services.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Yaounde, Cameroon
+(237) 2 2251-4000
+(237) 2 2220-1500
+(237) 2 2251-4000 and +(237) 2 2220-1500 (after hours)
yaoundeacs@state.gov
http://yaounde.usembassy.gov - State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
- Central African Republic Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
- Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
