WARDEN MESSAGE
THE EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE EMBASSY WARDEN SYSTEM AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO AMERICAN CITIZENS IN SRI LANKA. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS YOU KNOW, WHO ARE NOT REGISTERED WITH THE EMBASSY.
Warden Message December 30, 2006
On December 30, 2006, ousted Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein was executed by the Government of Iraq after being found guilty of crimes against humanity. Despite this being an Iraqi decision, Saddam’s execution may prompt unrest and anti-American demonstrations in Sri Lanka. We wish to remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the area of demonstrations and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. American citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security.
American citizens may contact the Embassy at 249-8500 for further information. For after-hour emergencies, please dial 249-8888.
U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State’s latest consular information sheet for Sri Lanka, and the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, available at HYPERLINK "http://travel.state.gov/"http://travel.state.gov. 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).