U.S. Embassy Rangoon, Burma
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Violent Attacks in Northern Rakhine
August 30, 2017
Due to the widespread attacks against government security forces in northern Rakhine State and because of continued instability, we strongly advise all U.S. citizens to avoid travel to northern Rakhine State – defined as Maungdaw, Rathedaung, and Buthidaung townships.
U.S. Embassy staff members are currently prohibited from travel to these three townships, and are only permitted essential work travel on a case-by-case basis to all other parts of Rakhine State. U.S. Embassy staff are permitted personal travel to tourist areas outside of northern Rakhine State, such as Mrauk-U and the Thandwe/Ngapali Beach area, but are asked to exercise caution.
There may be further protests against the presence and activities of the United Nations and international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) in Sittwe and elsewhere in Rakhine State. Avoid all protests and large gatherings as they could quickly become violent.
Tourist sites in Rakhine State such as Thandwe, Ngapali, and Mrauk-U are outside of the current areas of conflict and instability. However, travelers are urged to use caution, and maintain situational awareness if they choose to travel to these areas.
The Embassy advises U.S. citizens in all parts of Burma to take normal precautions to ensure your safety and security. If you see something suspicious, report it to the authorities, if possible, and leave the area immediately.
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. Please be aware that we may not be able to reach you immediately if you are traveling in remote or restricted areas.
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. The after-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +95 (0)95124330, or +95 1 500 547.
If you are in the United States, call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free or 1-202-501-4444 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
