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Australia gives Saudi Travel Warning
THE Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) today warned Australians to defer any non-essential travel to Saudi Arabia, citing credible reports of imminent terrorists attacks.In an updated travel advisory, DFAT said terrorists had targeted both Saudi citizens and foreigners within residential compounds, their workplaces and at government installations and had caused significant loss of life including Australians. It said the terrorist attacks could occur at any time and anywhere in the kingdom including the capital Riyadh. "We have received credible reports that terrorists are planning attacks in Saudi Arabia in the near future," DFAT said in its advisory. "This follows other recent reporting suggesting that terrorists may be planning to attack residential housing compounds in Saudi Arabia." DFAT said Australians in Saudi Arabia concerned for their safety should consider departure. Those choosing to remain in Saudi Arabia should exercise extreme caution, including in places known to be frequented by foreigners and monitor developments that might affect their safety, it said. Australians in Saudi Arabia were strongly encouraged to register with the Australian Embassy in Riyadh by way of the DFAT on-line registration service. DFAT said the terrorist tactics could range from bombings through to smaller-scale attacks, such as drive-by shootings, kidnapping and opportunistic targeting of foreigners. There have also been frequent gun-battles between terrorists and security forces and a number of vehicle bombs and arms caches have been captured. DFAT said Australians should thoroughly check their vehicles before driving, especially after leaving them unattended. Posted by: God Save The World 2005-08-08 |
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