Americans warned of al Qaeda-linked terrorist presence in popular vacation getaway

The U.S. Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire reissued a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” travel advisory for visitors.(Marc Deville/Gamma-Rapho)

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Officials warned that terrorists may attack tourist spots, nightclubs,hotels, restaurantsand places of worship.

Travelers are also advised to avoid demonstrations, protests, political rallies and large crowds, as these can become violent, leading to demonstrators and security force clashes, the advisory said.

The health infrastructure in rural areas of Côte d’Ivoire may be less adequate than those facilities in large cities.

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Officials warned there are often shortages of medicine, medical supplies and basic resources in public and privatehealth facilities.

Hospitals and doctors might also require payment up front prior to service or admission, the advisory said. 

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There was an attack at the Étoile du Sud hotel, pictured here, in 2016.Three Islamist gunmen opened fire and killed at least 19 people.(iStock)

Piracy is also a threat, officials said.

“Ships at seanear 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.”

Other parts of the tropical country are “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”

al Qaeda-linked terrorist groupJama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) has been found in the Sahel region, including Burkina Faso and Mali, according to a number of sources.

Officials warn that terrorists may attack tourist spots, nightclubs, hotels, restaurants and houses of worship.Shown here, the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire, one of the largest churches in the world.(iStock)

“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, includingComoé National Park.These attacks have mainly targeted Ivoirian security forces, and sometimes civilians.”

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There was an attack at the Étoile du Sud hotel in 2016, in which three Islamist gunmen opened fire and killed at least 19 people.

It is also noted that al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) has carried out small-scale attacks in northern Côte d’Ivoire.

visitors arrive in Côte d’Ivoireeach year, according to government data.

Ashley J.