Do not travel to Mali – US warns its citizens due to crime, terrorism, others

The United States, through the Department of State has updated its Travel Advisory for Mali on Thursday, to reflect that the Department ordering non- emergency employees and their family members to leave the country for a safety measures.

According to the statement released by State Department revealed that the Travel Advisory Level for Mali remains Level 4 which categorized to “Do not Travel, replacing the previous Travel Advisory issued on October 24.

It stated further that the government of the United States cannot offer routine or emergency services to its citizens who are outside of Bamako due to safety risks while warning its citizens not travel to Mali for any reason.   

It added that U.S. govt employees working in Mali are not allowed to travel outside of Bamako due to safety risks citizens in Mali are advised to take the same precautions.

The US govt revealed that violent crime is common throughout Mali which include kidnapping, assault, robbery, home invasion, and carjacking, adding that the crime is a major concern in Bamako especially during local holidays and seasonal events.  

“Roadblocks, including by armed groups, occur throughout the country. In cities, police checkpoints possible, especially at night. Highways across the country often face attacks on govt, civilian, and commercial targets. 
It stated further that there is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mali, asking its citizens to visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.Terrorist and armed groups target foreigners to kidnap for ransom.

Adding that terrorists may attack without warning: Spots frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country, Night clubs, Hotels, Restaurants, Places of worship, International diplomatic missions, Local security forces and civilians.

“Armed conflict between the Malian government and armed groups is common throughout Mali. Many terrorist and separatist armed groups are active throughout the country.  
“These groups may plan and carry out deadly attacks against Malian govt and military facilities, including in and around Bamako. Conflict between these groups often results in civilian casualties.

“Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Health facilities are available in major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas. Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.

“Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals. Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities. Hospital -based care is only available through government institutions.
“If you must travel, develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization which will help them monitor your safety, location as you travel through high-risk areas. 

“Identify key sources of possible help for you, your family in case of emergency, such as the local embassy or consulate, FBI, the State Department, your employer (if traveling on business), and local friends or family in the high-risk area.   

“Choose one family member to serve as the point of contact. If you are kidnapped or taken hostage, that person can communicate with kidnappers, hostage -takers, media, or foreign govt agencies, and members of Congress.  

“Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones. If you are taken hostage, your loved ones will know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to confirm that you are being held captive and alive.  
“Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them for identification purposes. Use available safety measures in your home or hotel, always including locking doors and windows, and setting the alarm.  

“If asked to stop by police, stop only in well-lit areas or places where several officers are posted. Before you travel, delete any sensitive photos, comments, or content that might be controversial or inappropriate in your destination.

“Do this for your social media accounts, cameras, laptops, phones, and other accounts and devices. Leave your expensive or sentimental belongings behind. Refer to our list of medical providers. Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.  

“Check with your doctor about required vaccines, shots for high-risk exposure before you go to Mali. We recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage”, US govt said.