Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Small Explosions

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United States Embassy Rangoon, Burma

Security Message for U.S. Citizens:  Small Explosions

 November 21, 2016

While there are no known specific threats against U.S. citizens in Burma, the Embassy advises that there have been small explosions at retail commercial centers in Rangoon.  On November 17, there were two small explosions at the Ocean Supercenter in Mayangone Township and on November 20, there were small explosions at the Capital Hyper Market in Thaketa Township.

The Embassy urges U.S. citizens residing in or traveling in Burma to exercise good situational awareness, especially during the height of tourist season.  If you see something suspicious, leave the area immediately and report it to local authorities.  Do not touch, move, or tamper with any suspicious package.  Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including at local events; and monitor local news stations for updates.  Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.  Stay clear of all demonstrations or large public gatherings, including festival crowds.  Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

For further information:

  • See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Burma Country Specific Information.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.  If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate
  • Contact the U.S. Embassy in Burma, located at 110 University Avenue, Kamayut Township, at +95 1 536 509, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.  After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +95 (0)95124330, or +95 1 500 547.
  • Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  •  Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Note:  The timestamp on this e-mail message may reflect Washington, D.C., time, which may differ from local time.