A renewed terror threat warning is raising concerns for Americans traveling to Côte d’Ivoire, a popular West African destination that draws nearly 2 million international visitors each year. The U.S. Embassy has reissued a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” advisory, citing risks tied to crime, terrorism, unrest, health limitations and piracy.
“Exercise increased caution in Côte d’Ivoire due to crime, terrorism, unrest, health and piracy in nearby waters,” the advisory reposted Feb. 18 states. Officials warned, “There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity, in Côte d’Ivoire.” Tourist spots, nightclubs, hotels, restaurants and places of worship could be targeted.
The advisory follows reports that the al Qaeda-linked group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) operates in the Sahel region, including Burkina Faso and Mali. “In the past, JNIM has crossed the border from Burkina Faso to conduct attacks in northern Côte d’Ivoire,” officials said. “Attacks have occurred in the Savanes and Zanzan districts, including Comoé National Park. These attacks have mainly targeted Ivoirian security forces, and sometimes civilians.”
Authorities also highlighted maritime threats. “Ships at sea near Côte d’Ivoire are vulnerable to major threats from piracy, armed robbery and kidnapping for ransom… U.S. citizens on vessels in the Gulf of Guinea off West Africa should stay alert.”
The advisory further warned, “Do not travel to the northern border region of Côte d’Ivoire for any reason.” While officials noted, “There have been no recent known incidents of violent extremism in the region, although risks remain along the northern border and in the northeast corner of Côte d’Ivoire,” the presence of extremist networks continues to pose security concerns.
