Map from CIA World Factbook
The U.S. Department State has ordered the departure of non-emergency personnel and eligible family members of the U.S. Embassy in Conakry, Guinea on October 1. This occurred days after the country's military units opened fire on civilians and clashed with protesters at an opposition rally that killed over 150 people. The violence came about reportedly when political parties and trade unions defied the ruling National Council for Democracy and Development (CNDD) military junta's protest ban. The protest was organized against reports that CNDD Leader Moussa Dadis Camara might run for president in the January 2010 election.
The embassy evacuation is for an initial period of ten days according to the mission’s warden message. The message also indicates that the Embassy is prepared to assist U.S. citizens who wish to depart from Guinea. The Department of State issued a travel warning for Guinea, quick excerpt provided below:
"The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to Guinea due to continuing civil unrest and the unpredictable nature of the current security situation. U.S. citizens are advised that the Department of State has ordered the departure of non-emergency personnel and eligible family members of the U.S. Embassy in Conakry, Guinea.
The U.S. Embassy in Guinea will be open for emergency American Citizens Services only. Citizens should be aware that depending on the security situation, the Embassy may be forced to suspend operations without advance notice. The international airport in Conakry is currently operating normally, however, flights may be suspended if the current security situation worsens. Land borders are also open at this time, but may close without warning. U.S. citizens who remain in Guinea despite this Travel Warning are urged to stay in their homes until the security situation returns to normal, to closely monitor media reports, and to follow all official instructions. U.S. citizens who must leave their homes for any reason are urged to exercise extreme caution, be particularly alert to their surroundings, and to avoid crowds, demonstrations, or any other form of public gathering. Visitors to Guinea should be familiar with their hotel evacuation plans, policies, or procedures. U.S. citizens in Guinea should carry their travel documents (i.e., passport, birth certificate, picture ID's, etc.) with them at all times. Additionally, U.S. citizens in the area are reminded to stay in contact with friends and family in the United States to keep them apprised of their current welfare and whereabouts.”
Related Item: OSAC: Guinea Violence | 091002 Guinea Violence.pdf
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