The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that the U.S. government has received information that terrorist groups are planning to carry out near-term attacks against places where U.S. citizens congregate in Nouakchott. This information comes against the backdrop of calls by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) for its adherents to carry out terrorist attacks globally in 2016.
You should be aware of your surroundings at all times and maintain good personal security practices, including always locking homes and cars, varying routes and times of travel, and maintaining a low profile. When going out, avoid being part of large, highly visible groups of Westerners and avoid sitting in areas that are easily visible from the street. Be particularly alert when frequenting locales associated with Westerners.
Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
For further information:
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Mauritania 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.
- Contact the U.S. Embassy in Mauritania, located at The U.S. Embassy is located between the Presidency building and the Spanish Embassy on Rue Abdallaye. The postal address is B.P. 222, Nouakchott, Mauritania, at + (222) 4525-2660, Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. – Friday 8 a.m. to 12: 00 a.m. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is + (222) 3662-8163.
- 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).
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