US Embassy warns of crime, terrorism risks in updated Ivory Coast travel advisory

The U.S. Embassy in Ivory Coast in Ivory Coast has reissued its “Level 2: Exercise Extra Caution” travel warning, adding a note about safety concerns in the popular African destination.

“Exercise measures have been increased in Ivory Coast due to crime, terrorism, unrest, health and piracy in nearby waters,” according to the announcement republished on February 18.

Authorities say violent crimes such as car thefts, robberies and home invasions are common in certain parts of the country.

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They warned travelers that local police may not be able to respond to serious crimes; They advised tourists to be aware of their surroundings in urban areas and crowded markets.

“There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activities, in Ivory Coast,” the declaration stated.

Authorities warned that terrorists could attack tourist spots, nightclubs, hotels, restaurants and places of worship.

Travelers are also advised to avoid demonstrations, protests, political rallies and large crowds as these could turn violent, leading to clashes between demonstrators and security forces.

Health infrastructure in rural areas of Ivory Coast may be less adequate than facilities in major cities.

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Officials warned that public and private health facilities frequently experience shortages of medicines, medical supplies and basic resources.

Hospitals and doctors may require advance payment before service or admission, the consultant said.

There was an attack on the Étoile du Sud hotel, pictured, in 2016. Three Islamist gunmen opened fire and killed at least 19 people. (iStock)

Piracy is also a threat, officials said.

“Ships at sea near Ivory Coast are vulnerable to major threats such as piracy, armed robbery, and kidnapping for ransom…U.S. citizens aboard ships in the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of West Africa should remain vigilant.”

Other parts of the tropical country are “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”

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The advisory warned: “Do not travel to the northern border region of Ivory Coast for any reason.”

According to some sources, this advice came after the al-Qaeda-linked terrorist group Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) was found in the Sahel region, including Burkina Faso and Mali.

Authorities warn that terrorists may attack tourist attractions, nightclubs, hotels, restaurants and places of worship. Shown here is the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Yamoussoukro, in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, one of the largest churches in the world. (iStock)

“In the past, JNIM has crossed the border from Burkina Faso to conduct attacks in northern Ivory Coast,” officials said.

“Attacks occurred in the Savanes and Zanzan regions, including the Comoé National Park. These attacks mostly targeted Ivory Coast security forces, but sometimes civilians.”

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In the attack on the Étoile du Sud hotel in 2016, three Islamist gunmen opened fire and killed at least 19 people.

It was also noted that Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) carried out small-scale attacks in northern Ivory Coast.

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“Although risks remain along the northern border and in the northeastern corner of Ivory Coast, there have been no known recent incidents of violent extremism in the region,” officials said.

Approximately 2 million international visitors come to Ivory Coast every year, according to government data.