Security Message for United States Citizens
March 29, 2014
Ongoing Violence in Rakhine State
While there are no known specific threats against U.S. citizens in Rakhine State, ongoing mob violence prompts the Embassy to advise U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Burma to avoid travel to Rakhine State, except to the tourist resort Ngapali via Thandwe airport.
Demonstrations or mobs associated with the ethnic strife in Rakhine State, coupled with inter-ethnic and religious tensions, have occasionally led to spontaneous outbreaks of violence in other parts of the country. Although many demonstrations throughout Burma have been generally non-violent, even events that are meant to be peaceful can become violent and unpredictable. Stay clear of all demonstrations or large public gatherings. While in public areas, stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. If you see something suspicious, leave the area immediately and report it to local authorities.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Burma enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.Travel.State.Gov.STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Burma. For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.
Contact the U.S. Embassy in Rangoon for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.
The U.S. Embassy in Rangoon is located at 110 University Avenue, Kamayut Township, and is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. M-F. The Embassy Telephone is (95)-(1)-536-509. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy is (95)-(9)-512-4330.If calling the 24 Hour Embassy Telephone, explain that you want to speak to the Duty Officer or a Consular Officer.
