Warden Message 4/10/2007 - Ongoing Security Concerns

As noted in the November 20, 2006 Public Announcement for the Middle East and North Africa, there are ongoing security concerns in the region.  Further to the November Public Announcement and the February 9, 2007 warden message issued by the Consulate General, U.S. citizens in Morocco are reminded to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness.

Following an April 10 incident in Casablanca during which Moroccan police confronted three potential terrorists in a residential neighborhood, the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca temporarily suspended services to the public.  The potential for violence against American interests and citizens and other Western targets remains high in Morocco and the Consulate General encourages Americans in Morocco to remain vigilant regarding their personal security.  Moroccan authorities continue to disrupt groups seeking to attack U.S.- or Western-affiliated targets and arrest individuals associated with international terrorist groups.  Establishments which are readily identifiable with the United States are potential targets for attacks.  These may include facilities where US citizens and other foreigners congregate, including clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, hotels, movie theaters and other public areas.  Such targets may also include establishments where activities occur that may offend religious sensitivities, such as casinos or places where alcoholic beverages are sold or consumed. Due to varying degrees of security at all such locations, Americans should be particularly vigilant when visiting these establishments.

While in Morocco, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and maintain a low profile.  All U.S. citizens are urged to consider seriously their personal security and to take those measures they deem appropriate to ensure their well-being.  Report any suspicious incidents or problems immediately to Moroccan authorities and the U.S. Embassy in Rabat or the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca.

The U.S. Department of State encourages all American citizens residing in Morocco to register their presence and obtain up-to-date information on security conditions at the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca at 8 Blvd. Moulay Youssef, Telephone: 022-43-05-78.  After hours, please call 022-26-45-50 or 061-17-23-67. Information is also available on our website at: http://casablanca.usconsulate.gov/warden_information.html
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet website at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Middle East and North Africa Public Announcement, and other Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found.  Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).