Warden Messages
Security Warden Message - June 18, 2007
U.S. Embassy Dushanbe would like to bring the following safety information to the attention of all U.S. citizens resident or traveling in Tajikistan.
The news media has widely reported an explosion that occurred Saturday evening outside the building of the Supreme Court in Dushanbe. According to press accounts, Tajik authorities have called the explosion a terrorist act, and it is presently unclear whether there were any fatalities or injuries. The Embassy would like to remind all U.S. citizens of ongoing security concerns and the potential for terrorist acts in Central Asia. The Embassy reminds American citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness.
The Embassy has also detected a noticeable increase in violent incidents in nightclubs and bars in Dushanbe. Two separate incidents occurred at nightclubs “Simin” and “Port Said” over this past weekend in which American citizens were attacked, some seriously injured, and club management and security took no action to prevent or stop the attacks. In response to this trend, the Embassy has instituted a policy prohibiting its American personnel from visiting the above named establishments, “Simin” and “Port Said,” for a period of four weeks while the Regional Security Office evaluates their safety and security. Additionally, the U.S. Embassy has placed restrictions on official personnel frequenting any establishment which serves alcohol after 12:00 midnight. The Embassy likewise advises all American citizens to exercise extreme caution when visiting bars or nightclubs, particularly late at night; and to stay in pairs or groups, be aware of surroundings, and take general precautions.
The U.S. Department of State encourages all American citizens residing in Tajikistan to register their presence and obtain up-to-date information on security conditions at the U.S. Embassy in Dunshanbe at 109A Ismoili Somoni Avenue, Telephone: 992-37-229-2000. After hours, please call 992-907-70-10-32. Information is also available on our website at: http://dushanbe.usembassy.gov/information_for_travelers.html.