The American Embassy in Algeria has issued an urgent alert from the Diplomatic Security Service (SSD, security service of the United States Department of State), warning their nationals against any travel to Tindouf, a commune in western Algeria where the Polisario militias are established.
The alert mentions immediate perils from February 28, surrounding the so-called Sahara marathon, an ultra-distance ultra-trail using routes reputed to be dangerous or used by notorious criminal gangs. Among the dangers mentioned is the risk of kidnapping.
This Algerian-engineered event often takes place in difficult weather conditions.
The SSD, responsible for protecting American diplomatic and consular missions in around a hundred countries, recommends Americans avoid the area through March 15.
![](https://www.myjoyonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image-436.png)
It warned that they should be aware of their surroundings, stay alert in locations frequented by tourists/Westerners, make contingency plans to leave, review their personal security plans, have travel documents up to date and easily accessible and carry proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a current visa.
SSD regularly refers to Algeria as an “unsafe country”, especially when the regime in power is going through serious political tensions.
Algeria, which is home to an internationally unrecognised entity suspected of collusion with terrorist groups, does not fully guarantee the security of its vast territory or its borders.
Latest Stories
-
Paris 2024: Opening ceremony showcases grandiose celebration of French culture and diversity
3 hours -
How decline of Indian vultures led to 500,000 human deaths
3 hours -
Paris 2024: Ghana rocks ‘fabulous fugu’ at olympics opening ceremony
4 hours -
Trust Hospital faces financial strain with rising debt levels – Auditor-General’s report
4 hours -
Electrochem lease: Allocate portions of land to Songor people – Resident demand
5 hours -
82 widows receive financial aid from Chayil Foundation
5 hours -
The silent struggles: Female journalists grapple with Ghana’s high cost of living
5 hours -
BoG yet to make any payment to Service Ghana Auto Group
5 hours -
‘Crushed Young’: The Multimedia Group, JL Properties surprise accident victim’s family with fully-furnished apartment
5 hours -
Asante Kotoko needs structure that would outlive any administration – Opoku Nti
6 hours -
JoyNews exposé on Customs officials demanding bribes airs on July 29
6 hours -
JoyNews Impact Maker Awardee ships first consignment of honey from Kwahu Afram Plains
7 hours -
Joint committee under fire over report on salt mining lease granted Electrochem
8 hours -
Life Lounge with Edem Knight-Tay: Don’t be beaten the third time
8 hours -
Pro-NPP group launched to help ‘Break the 8’
8 hours