The U.S. Embassy is issuing this Security Message to alert U.S. citizens in Mali that the Embassy is lifting the increased security measures put into place on March 7, with some caveats. Recent events, such as the La Terrasse attack, underline the necessity of understanding the security environment in Mali, and diligently practicing personal security awareness in everyday activities.
The Embassy is still not aware of any specific additional threat information at this time. Given this, it has lifted the previously announced restriction on the nighttime patronage of bars, restaurants, nightclubs and entertainment venues normally frequented by Westerners. However, the Embassy has encouraged its personnel to continue exercising a high degree of personal responsibility for their own safety and security, and to use their knowledge of the environment to exercise common sense on where and when to go out, particularly at night (neighborhoods, entrances/exits and security personnel or lack thereof, suspicious activity, etc.).
In addition, the Embassy has reminded its staff that:
- Particular attention to one’s personal, vehicular and residential needs be paid on a daily basis.
- Malian security forces are continuing to make efforts to locate suspects of the La Terrasse attack that are still at large, while also continuing to investigate the incident.
- Increased Malian police and military security patrols, checkpoints/roadblocks, and operations are to be expected, especially during the hours of darkness.
- No overnight camping or travel is permitted in the areas between Bamako and Siby until further notice, as the Embassy has received reports that Malian police and military patrols are still occurring over a wide area around Siby. This restriction is in place to avoid any possible encounters with patrolling units.
Further, the Embassy has reiterated to its personnel the following general security guidance as recommended standard operating procedures at all times:
- Attempt to alter the times and days you visit locations away from home or work.
- Avoid peak occupancy hours of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, entertainment venues and grocery stores.
- Utilize any residential security measures at your disposal (grills, locks, alarms, etc.).
- When driving, ensure your windows are rolled up and your doors are locked. Keep an eye on any suspicious activities in the vicinity of your vehicle. Alter your routes to and from work and other places that you visit frequently.
- Exercise caution, remain vigilant, maintain situational awareness at all times, and take appropriate security precautions to ensure your own safety.
The Embassy recommends that private U.S. citizens follow the same precautions.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Mali despite the Travel Warning enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at travel.state.gov. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you do not 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 Mali. For additional information, refer to the “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.
Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate 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 to have travel information at your fingertips.
The U.S. Embassy in Bamako is located at ACI 2000, Rue 243 Porte 297. The Consular Section can be contacted at +223 2070 2505, or via email at acsbamako@state.gov. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, please contact the Embassy Duty Officer via the Marine Guard at +223 2070 2301 or 2070 2302.
