New State Dept. Warning On Sudan

The U.S. State Department issued the following Travel Warning with regard to the continued threat of terrorism in Sudan, which reads in part: "This Travel Warning for Sudan reminds U.S. citizens of the continued threat of terrorism in Sudan and stresses the importance of obtaining proper travel documents before attempting entry into any part of the country. This supersedes the Travel Warning issued for Sudan on 6 February 2006. The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Sudan, particularly in the Darfur area where there is a continuing buildup of Government and rebel military forces and where violence has increased significantly.

The Department continues to remind travelers that the U.S. Government has received indications of terrorist threats aimed at American and Western interests in Sudan. Terrorist actions may include suicide operations, bombings, or kidnappings. U.S. citizens should be aware of the risk of indiscriminate attacks on civilian targets in public places, which include tourist sites and locations where westerners are known to congregate, and commercial operations associated with U.S. or Western interests.

As physical security remains high at official facilities, terrorists may turn towards softer targets, such as residential compounds. Sporadic fighting instigated by militias is often reported in the southern parts of the country. Travel outside of the capital city of Khartoum is potentially dangerous. Threats have been made against foreigners working in the oil industry in Upper Nile state. As a result of violence and banditry, the United Nations has declared many parts of Darfur "No-Go" areas for UN personnel.

Due to the potential for banditry and general lawlessness in rural areas, land travel at night should be avoided….Failure to possess the appropriate travel documents and permits can result in the traveler's arrest and detention for multiple crimes, including illegal entry, publication of false information, and espionage. If convicted, sentences range from deportation to life in prison or the death penalty…"