Publish Date: 06/12/2017 No Changes This Week: Please be aware System Risk Management has asked all members to prohibit travel to extreme risk countries and regions. Please reference memorandum from the Chancellor regarding procedures relating to international travel to be followed by all System members found at this link: http://www.tamus.edu/assets/files/safety/pdf/InternationalTraveltoHighRiskCountries.pdf Should you have any questions, please contact me directly. Thank you. Henry Judah, AIC CPCU CLU ChFC | Associate Director System Risk Management [email protected] 1262 TAMU | College Station, TX 77840‐7896 Tel. 979.458.6234 | Cell 979.820.2006 | Fax 979.458.6247 | www.tamus.edu Country Travel Advisory List: Any travel to the below listed countries requires an International Travel Questionnaire submission to System Risk Management for review.  Afghanistan  Central African Republic  Gaza Strip  Libya  Somalia  South Sudan  Syria  Yemen Any travel to the specified regions within a country noted below requires an International Travel Questionnaire submission to System Risk Management for review. New Executive Order Protecting The Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States On March 6, the President issued a revised order outlining protections related to the entry of personnel from various countries. The link to the order can be found here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/the‐
press‐office/2017/03/06/executive‐order‐protecting‐nation‐foreign‐terrorist‐entry‐united‐states However, a district court in Hawaii has issued a block of this new order and the order is pending subject to it working through the legal system. System Risk Management advised all personnel who may be effected by the new order, monitor the legal challenges closely for relevant and current information. 
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Armenia: Within 2km of the line of contact in the disputed Nagorno‐Karabakh region Azerbaijan Within 2km of the line of contact in the disputed Nagorno‐Karabakh region Cameroon: Far North (Extreme‐Nord) region and within 50km of Cameroon's shared border with Nigeria in the country's North (Nord) and Adamawa (Adamaoua) regions. 
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Chad: Ennedi‐Est, Ennedi‐Quest, Wadi Fira, Quaddai an Sila (which border Sudan), the southern regions of Logone Oriental, Mandoul, Moyen‐Chari and Salamat, the norther regions of Tibesti, Borkou and Ennedi‐Qest (which border Libya) and the western Kanem and Lac regions. Democratic Republic of Congo: The eastern Nord‐Kivu, Sud‐Kivu, and Tanganyika provinces, as well as the north eastern Ituri, Haut‐Uele and Bas‐Uele provinces and the Kasia Central province. 
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Egypt: North Sinai goverornate. Eritrea: Within 20km of Eritrea's borders with Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Sudan. Ethiopia: Within 20km of Ethiopia's border with Eritrea in the Tigray and Afar regions, within 20km of the South Sudan border in the Gambela and Benishangul‐Gumuz regions, and the Somali region (excluding the two northern zones of Fafan, formerly Jijiga, and Sitti, formerly Shinile). Iran: Sistan va Baluchestan province Iraq: Baghdad, Anbar, Salah ad‐Din, Kirkuk, Diyala, Ninewa, Karbala and Babil governorates and the northern Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG)‐held and disputed territory west of the Green Line. Israel: Within 2km of the shared Gaza Strip‐Israel border in southern Israel and all travel to the Gaza Strip due to the threats of conflict and secondary threats of kidnapping and terrorism. Japan: Within a 20km radius of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Okuma. Kenya: Within 50km of the Somali border in the Mandera, Wajir, Garissa and Lamu counties. Lebanon: South of the Litani River in the Ej Jnoub and Nabatieh governorates, Palestinian refugee camps, within 15km of the shared border with Syria in the Bekaa and North governorates, and to the city of Tripoli Mali: Gao, Kidal, Mopti and Timbuktu regions Mexico: Due to the high risks of kidnapping, violent crime and an escalating drug cartel‐related conflict, red24 currently advises against non‐essential travel to the countryside outside of major cities and primary resort areas as well as the states of Tamaulipas, Michoacan, Coahuila, Sinaloa, Nayarit and Guererro. 
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Niger: Within a 50km radius of Niger’s shared border with Nigeria in the administrative regions of Diffa and Zinder and to within a 100km radius of Niger’s shared borders with Chad, Algeria, Libya and Mali. Nigeria: Adamawa, Borno, Yobe and Gombe in the northeast. Rural and remote areas within Kaduna, Bauchi, Plateau, Benue, Zamfara, Enuge and Taraba states in the “Middle Belt” and the the Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta and Rivers states in the south. Pakistan: Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces 
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Philippines: The southern Mindanao region and the Sulu Archipelago. Russia: Chechnya, Ingushetia, Dagestan and Kabardino‐Balkaria (including the Mount Elbrus region). Saudi Arabia: Within 10km of the shared border with Yemen Somalia: Most of Somalia except Puntland and Somaliland. Sudan: Dafur region, South Kordufan state, Blue Nile state and the disputed Abyei region. Tunisia: The Djebel Chambi National Park (Kasserine governorate). South of but not including the towns of El Borma and Dhehiba (Tatauoine governorate) Turkey: Within 10km of the shared border with Syria in the Turkish provinces of Hatay, Kilis, Gaziantep, Sanliurfa, Mardin and Sirnak. Uganda: Areas within 30km of Uganda’s shared border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and South Sudan, excluding major towns. 
Ukraine: The Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts and the Crimean Peninsula. 12 June 2017
News summary
Americas CHILE / ARGENTINA - Border crossings closed due to heavy snow
HONDURAS - Doctors' strike reported in Tegucigalpa and elsewhere
UNITED STATES - Equality marches reported in several cities
Asia and Pacific AFGHANISTAN - US soldiers killed in Nangarhar province
CHINA - Tropical Storm Merbok to impact the south east
INDIA - Pro-Kannada organisations embark upon a strike in Karnataka
INDIA / PAKISTAN - Militants killed amid foiled attacks in Uri and nearby areas
PAKISTAN - IS claims to have killed kidnapped Chinese couple
PHILIPPINES - (Update) Further casualties amid security operations in Marawi
Europe and Russia KOSOVO - Snap parliamentary elections held countrywide
MOLDOVA - Anti-government protests in major urban areas
RUSSIA - Countrywide anti-government demonstrations
SLOVAKIA - Anti-corruption demonstration expected in Zilina
UNITED KINGDOM - Demonstration held in London
Middle East and North Africa ALGERIA - Pro-autonomy MAK call for protests in Azazga
IRAN - Fatalities in tribal dispute in Khuzestan province
IRAQ - Suicide bombing in Musayyib, Babil governorate
MOROCCO - (Update) Large peaceful Al-Hoceima-related protest in Rabat
YEMEN - (Update) Cholera outbreak persists countrywide
Sub-Saharan Africa DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO - Attack on prison in Beni, Nord-Kivu
GUINEA - Disruptive service delivery protests reported in Kamsar
MALI - Demonstration in Bamako forcibly dispersed by security forces
SOMALIA - Fatal clashes at food distribution site in Baidoa
SOUTH AFRICA - (Update) Fatalities amid Garden Route wildfires
SOUTH SUDAN - Armed attacks along Juba-Nimule Road
ZAMBIA - (Update) Heightened security in place at the High Court in Lusaka
Americas
CHILE / ARGENTINA; 10 June; Border crossings closed due to heavy snow
Authorities have closed the Paso Pehuenche and the Paso Internacional Los Libertadores international border crossings,
located in the Andean mountains between Chile and Argentina, due to heavy snowfall on 10 June. Pehuenche pass is
located in Chile's Maule region and Argentina's Mendoza province, while the Los Libertadores pass is located in Chile's
Valparaiso region and Argentina's Mendoza province. It is unclear when they will reopen. Bouts of heavy snowfall, which
are common during the winter months between June and August, regularly lead to travel disruptions in the Andes Mountains
that lie along the Chile-Argentina border. High-altitude border crossings are prone to temporary closures as adverse
weather conditions render the border thoroughfares impassable. Due to prevailing winter conditions, additional disruptions
to border operations to the aforementioned passes, as well as to others, are possible.
Advice: Clients intending to cross the border between Chile and Argentina are advised to seek local information on the
prevailing situation and, if possible, consult their travel provider for an update on the status of their travel arrangements.
HONDURAS (Country risk rating: High); 7 June; Doctors' strike reported in Tegucigalpa and
elsewhere
Doctors conducted a strike in the capital of Honduras, Tegucigalpa, and elsewhere in the country on 7 June. The agitation
was called in response to the government's failure to comply with an agreement to pay outstanding fees, particularly to
medical interns. Approximately 1,500 doctors participated in the strike; emergency services were still operational on the
day. It is unclear when the issue of payment will be resolved; further strikes are possible in the near-term. At present, there
have not been further confirmed calls for protests or associated agitations; however, in the event they do occur, the protests
may take place in the vicinity of the Ministry of Health in the capital and near hospitals and clinics around the country.
Although any protests that do take place are likely to remain peaceful, they are also likely to be well attended, resulting in
localised travel disruptions. The possibility of skirmishes between activists and security forces cannot be discounted.
Advice: Persons in Honduras in the coming days should monitor local media for updates regarding the strike and related
protest actions. All demonstrations should be avoided as a standard precaution.
UNITED STATES (Country risk rating: Medium); 11 June; Equality marches reported in
several cities
Equality marches and demonstrations took place in in several cities in the US, including the capital, Washington DC, on 11
June. The demonstrations were called to highlight issues affecting the country's LGBT community. The main demonstration
took place in the capital; a similar demonstration took place in Los Angeles (LA), which coincided with the LA Pride festival.
Although they were well attended, the events passed off peacefully. It should be noted however, that LGBT rallies have on
occasion been disrupted by those who harbour anti-LGBT sentiments, posing an incidental threat to those in attendance.
Advice: Persons in the US are advised to avoid any protests or activist gatherings as a standard precaution.
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Asia and Pacific
AFGHANISTAN (Country risk rating: Extreme); 10 June; US soldiers killed in Nangarhar
province
At least three US soldiers have been killed and another wounded after an Afghan soldier opened fire on them in the Achin
district of Afghanistan's eastern Nangarhar province, on 10 June. The shooter, who is believed to have been fighting
alongside US forces as part of the Afghan National Army, was killed in return fire. The Taleban has claimed responsibility
for the attack, alleging that the perpetrator was a Taleban loyalist instructed to infiltrate Afghani forces to conduct attacks
against foreign soldiers. This claim remains unverified. Regardless of the motive for the attack, the incident underscores
the extreme-risk operating environment in Afghanistan. Given the high levels of insecurity in the country, further incidents
targeting both locals and foreign nationals should be anticipated.
Advice: Due to a number of ongoing security concerns, all travel to Afghanistan is advised against. Clients currently in
the country are advised to implement maximum personal, travel and residential security protocols. Travel outside urban
centres should only be undertaken following a full security review of the route and ideally in the presence of a security
escort familiar with the local conditions.
CHINA (Country risk rating: Medium); 12 June; Tropical Storm Merbok to impact the south
east
According to weather forecasts, Tropical Storm Merbok is forecast to make landfall in China's Guangdong province by
approximately 18:00 local time on 12 June. Forecasts indicate that the storm will weaken to a tropical depression by 13
June as it moves north eastwards across the Guangdong and Fujian provinces, before entering the Taiwan Strait and
moving north of Taiwan by 14 June. The storm is expected to bring torrential rainfall to the coastal areas of Guangdong
and Fujian provinces, and to Macau and Hong Kong. Heavy rains may fall over a wider area, including parts of the Pearl
River Delta, as well as southern parts of Jiangxi and Zhenjiang provinces. Coastal surges are also possible. Heavy rains
may cause landslides in mountainous areas. Disruptions to road, rail and maritime transport should be anticipated over the
next 48 hours. Strong winds may also cause flight delays at affected airports, as well as ferry service disruptions in the
aforementioned areas. Adverse weather may also impact access to utility and communication services.
Advice: Clients in the affected areas are advised to monitor local media for updates and advisories from the authorities.
Persons intending on travelling in the aforementioned areas in the coming days should maintain contact with their travel
provider for updates on the status of their travel arrangements.
INDIA (Country risk rating: High); 12 June; Pro-Kannada organisations embark upon a strike
in Karnataka
Pro-Kannada organisations have embarked upon a state-wide strike in India's Karnataka state on 12 June. An
accompanying protest march is expected to take place from Town Hall to Freedom Park in Bengaluru, although it remains
unconfirmed if this has commenced. The organisations have also engaged in a road and rail blockade. Activists are
demanding that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government intervene in the Mahadayi dispute, a dispute regarding
the sharing of water from the Mahadayi river between the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. The strike has resulted in
moderate business closures and transport interruptions in Karnataka. There is also the possibility of associated
demonstrations throughout the state on the day, besides the one in Bengaluru. It should be noted there is a credible risk
of violence at all protests in India; confrontations between protesters and security forces may pose an incidental risk to
bystanders.
Advice:
Clients in Karnataka are advised to monitor local developments, and plan for disruptions associated with the
strike. All protests should be avoided as a precaution.
INDIA / PAKISTAN; 8 and 9 June; Militants killed amid foiled attacks in Uri and nearby areas
At least five militants were killed by security forces after attempting to infiltrate an area in the town of Uri, located near the
disputed Line of Control (LoC) in the India- and Pakistan-administered Kashmir region, between 8 and 9 June. Reports
indicate that the clashes took place amid a security operation in the area. Additionally, authorities believe that more militant
elements may still be in the area; search operations are ongoing. Four separate foiled militant attempts to infiltrate areas
along the LoC have been reported in the areas of Gurez, Machilb and Nougam since 7 June. The Kashmir region has been
part of a long-standing dispute between India and Pakistan; each country claims Kashmir as a part of its territory and the
dispute remains a highly contentious issue. The LoC continues to be a heavily militarised de facto border between the
Indian- and Pakistan-administered Kashmir regions. The LoC is regularly affected by low-level shootings, clashes and
shelling; several incidents have taken place in recent months. Due to ongoing tensions, further attacks are expected. The
violence is not expected to trigger a wider confrontation between India and Pakistan, both of whom are assessed as seeking
to leverage political capital out of the violence rather than initiating a costly full-scale conflict.
Advice:
Clients are advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Pakistan-administered Kashmir, which includes GilgitBaltistan and Azad Kashmir. Clients are further advised against all non-essential travel to India-administered Kashmir
(Jammu and Kashmir state), except the eastern Ladakh region. Local developments should be closely monitored and all
advisories from authorities should be adhered to. Persons in the affected parts of India and Pakistan are advised to exercise
heightened security awareness near the LoC.
PAKISTAN (Country risk rating: High); 8 June; IS claims to have killed kidnapped Chinese
couple
The Islamic State (IS) claimed through its Amaq News Agency on 8 June that it had killed two Chinese nationals who were
kidnapped on 24 May in Quetta, the capital of Pakistan's Balochistan province. Pakistani and Chinese authorities have said
that investigations into the claims are ongoing; no bodies have been found. The announcement follows a large security
operation between 1 and 3 June by Pakistani security forces against a pro-IS militant camp near the Isplingi area, located
approximately 40km south east of Mastung, in Balochistan, which left over 12 militants dead. Pakistan's Inter-Services
Public Relations (ISPR) organisation stated that the militants belonged to a faction of the Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) militant
group, which has reportedly formed an alliance with IS. The alleged killings may be in retaliation for the attack. The
kidnapping and alleged execution of the Chinese nationals underscores the high-risk operating environment in Balochistan
province. The targeting of Chinese nationals may be an attempt to undermine cooperation between Pakistan and China on
the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The incident further underscores the high risk of
kidnapping faced by foreign nationals in Pakistan; the threat exists countrywide, including in comparatively more secure
urban centres. Ransoms are often demanded and, on a number of occasions, hostages have been killed, either by the
perpetrators or by security forces during attempted rescue operations.
Advice: Due to numerous ongoing security concerns, clients are advised against all travel to Balochistan province.
Persons in or planning to travel to the region are advised to maintain a low profile, avoid travelling at night and strongly
consider making use of a security escort. Clients operating in the area should vary route and travelling times and keep
itinerary details private.
PHILIPPINES (Country risk rating: Medium); 11 June; (Update) Further casualties amid
security operations in Marawi
Further casualties were reported amid security operations in Marawi City, located in Lanao del Sur province, in the
Mindanao region of the southern Philippines, on 11 June. A sharp escalation in the conflict resulted in clashes on 9 June;
at least 13 military personnel were killed. At present, approximately 225 people have been killed, including 138 insurgents,
58 Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) troops and 29 civilians. According to a government statement, at least 200
militants and 1,000 civilians remain in the city. US Special Forces have reportedly provided technical support to the AFP,
who are attempting to clear Islamist insurgents from several areas in Marawi City. The insurgents, from the Abu Sayyaf
and Maute Islamist extremist groups, both of which have claimed ties to the Islamic State (IS), still maintain several areas
in the centre of the city. The violence in the city began on 23 May, when at least 400 militants launched coordinated attacks
on Marawi City in the wake of a botched AFP raid to capture Abu Sayyaf leader, Isnilon Hapilon. The scale of the insurgents'
assault caught the military unprepared, allowing the former to capture and hold multiple sites in the city. The joint AFP/US
Special Forces operation is expected to continue in the coming days. As such, retaliatory attacks by militants remain likely
in the besieged areas of Marawi City.
Advice: Due to a number of security concerns, including terrorism, kidnapping and conflict, clients are advised against
all travel to the southern Mindanao region. However, this advisory does not extend to the eastern Caraga and Davao
regions of Mindanao, against which non-essential travel is advised. Clients are advised to defer all travel to Marawi City
until the situation stabilises.
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Europe and Russia
KOSOVO (Country risk rating: Medium); 11 June; Snap parliamentary elections held
countrywide
Snap parliamentary elections were held countrywide in Kosovo on 11 June. President Hashim Thaci called for the early
elections after the government of Prime Minister Isa Mustafa lost a vote of no confidence on 10 May. The vote against the
prime minister was called by the Initiative for Kosovo (NISMA) opposition party, with support from the Thaci's Democratic
Party of Kosovo (PDK), who voted along with other opposition parties against Mustafa. Opposition parties have been
strongly opposed to a border demarcation deal with Montenegro, which they claim deprives Kosovo of crucial territory.
Mustafa had been pressing for a resolution of the demarcation issue as the final condition for obtaining visa-free travel for
Kosovars in the European Union. The elections concluded without serious incident. Previous elections in Kosovo have
been tainted by politically motivated unrest and targeted violence, particularly in Kosovska, Mitrovica and elsewhere in the
north. The fragmentation of the Srpska Lista, an alliance of ethnic Serb parties, into numerous Kosovo-Serb oriented parties
has resulted in political infighting among Kosovo-Serb groups in the north in recent weeks. Additional security forces were
deployed ahead of and during the polls, including in the north. Low-level clashes may occur between rival political
supporters once the results are published; however, these are not expected to be violent, as protests in Kosovo are largely
peaceful. The general risk to foreign nationals is considered largely incidental.
Advice: Clients in Kosovo in the immediate-term are advised to monitor local media for updates on the election results
and related developments. Due to ongoing tensions between ethnic Albanians and Serbs, including frequent
demonstrations and regular incidents of targeted, low-level violence, clients are advised to exercise heightened caution
during travel to the northern parts of Kosovo, particularly the municipalities of Leposavic, Zubin Potok, Zvecan and the city
of Mitrovica.
MOLDOVA (Country risk rating: Medium); 11 June; Anti-government protests in major
urban areas
Anti-government demonstrations were held in numerous cities throughout Moldova on 11 June. In the capital, Chisinau,
over 2,000 activists supported by the Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) and the Our Home Moldova Party (PCNM) gathered
at the Moldovan Parliament building on Stefan cel Mare si Sfant Boulevard for a demonstration, which concluded without
serious incident. The demonstrations are the latest in a series of protests in recent weeks in connection with a bill passed
by Parliament that changes the electoral system from a proportional representation (PR) system to a mixed one. The
opposition claims that the changes will benefit the Democratic Party (PD), led by Vladimir Plahotniuc, which is supported
by President Igor Dodon and his Socialist Party (PSRM). The bill is seen as moving Moldova away from closer ties with
the EU, which benefits Dodon's pro-Russian position. Political discourse in the country is increasingly revolving around the
topic of corruption, as well as political and economic integration with the EU versus developing closer ties with Russia.
Related demonstrations have been well attended and have concluded without major incident; however, the possibility of
low-level skirmishes at any related upcoming protests cannot be discounted. Localised travel disruptions are also
anticipated in the vicinity of all demonstrations. Due to increasing anti-government sentiment, further such demonstrations
are expected for the short- to medium-term at least, which may result in minor sporadic, mostly non-violent, civil unrest, as
well as localised traffic disruptions.
Advice: Persons in Moldova are advised to avoid all demonstrations and related gatherings as a standard security
precaution. Clients elsewhere in the country are advised to monitor local media for updates on related demonstrations.
Clients should also expect localised traffic disruptions in the vicinity of related gatherings.
RUSSIA (Country risk rating: High); 12 June; Countrywide anti-government demonstrations
Anti-government demonstrations, initiated by opposition leader Alexei Navalny, are expected to take place in urban centres
across Russia on 12 June. The primary demonstration is set to take place along Academician Sakharov Avenue, located
in the Krasnoselsky district of the capital, Moscow. Although authorities have sanctioned the event in Moscow, permission
has not been granted for associated events in St Petersburg. The protests have been planned to coincide with Russia Day,
a holiday that commemorates the adoption of the declaration of state sovereignty. The protests will be accompanied by an
elevated police presence. It should be noted that previous related protests called for by Navalny on 26 March and 2 April
resulted in the arrests of several protesters; however, no major violence was reported. Although there have been no reports
of unrest thus far, the risk of confrontations between the police and protesters is considered elevated and increases further
should marchers deviate from pre-approved protest sites. Localised road travel disruptions should be anticipated in all
protest-affected areas for the duration of 12 June.
Advice: Clients in Russia should avoid all street protests and large public gatherings as a standard precaution. Itineraries
should be amended to cater for road travel disruptions. Travellers should also monitor local news for updates on the protest
starting point(s) and routes.
SLOVAKIA (Country risk rating: Low); 12 June; Anti-corruption demonstration expected in
Zilina
An anti-corruption demonstration, initiated by activist and student groups, is expected to take place in Zilina, Slovakia, on
12 June. Participants will gather at Marianske Square at 17:00 local time. The gathering forms part of an ongoing anticorruption protest campaign. An associated demonstration may take place in Presov, although this is yet to be confirmed.
Participants are demanding the resignation of the interior minister, Roberta Kalinaka, and the police chief, Tibora Gaspara,
due to numerous corruption allegations levelled against them. Although the upcoming demonstrations are anticipated to
conclude peacefully, the possibility of incidents of unrest, including clashes between participants and police, cannot be
discounted. In addition, localised travel disruptions should be anticipated in the vicinity of the upcoming demonstrations.
As the issue remains ongoing, further related demonstrations are anticipated in the coming weeks.
Advice:
Persons in Zilina are advised to avoid the upcoming protests, related gatherings and any concentrations of
security forces as a precaution. Clients should also ensure that itineraries are kept flexible to accommodate any resultant
travel disruptions.
UNITED KINGDOM (Country risk rating: Medium); 10 June; Demonstration held in London
Hundreds attended an anti-government protest in the UK's capital, London, on 10 June. Protesters gathered for a second
day, following a related protest on 9 June, in the vicinity of Downing Street, to protest the government administration under
the British prime minister, Theresa May, and the coalition between the Conservative Party and the Democratic Unionist
Party (DUP), following the 8 June general elections. The agitation concluded without major incident and resulted in localised
travel disruptions. Due to the current elevated tensions following the polarised response to the outcome of the recent
general elections, further protest activity is anticipated.
Advice: Person in the UK are advised to monitor local media for further information on developments and associated
protest activity. All large street gatherings and concentrations of security forces should be avoided as a general precaution.
Localised travel disruptions should be anticipated in the vicinity of affected sites.
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Middle East and North Africa
ALGERIA (Country risk rating: High); 14 June; Pro-autonomy MAK call for protests in
Azazga
Pro-autonomy Movement for the Autonomy of Kabylie (MAK) activists have called for protests in Azazga in Algeria's
northern Tizi Ouzou province on 14 June. During the evening of 14 June, the organisation has reportedly called on its
supporters across the Kabylie region, including in Tizi Ouzou, Bouira and Bejaia, to raise the Kabylie flag. MAK-related
protests are common in Algeria's northern Kabylie region (Bejaia, Tizi Ouzou and Bouira). The MAK, which represents the
Kabyle people, is agitating for greater local autonomy. The protest in Azazga is expected to be well attended. Activists from
surrounding regions may join the protest. Previous MAK protests have been affected by low-level clashes with the police;
further clashes are possible at gatherings on 14 June.
Advice: Persons in or planning to operate in the affected areas on 14 June should monitor local developments closely
and avoid all street protests. Please note that heightened caution is advised when travelling outside major urban centres
between the capital, Algiers, and the Tunisian border due to the threats of terrorism, kidnapping and crime.
IRAN (Country risk rating: High); 9 June; Fatalities in tribal dispute in Khuzestan province
At least 22 people were killed in clashes between rival tribes in the southern Khuzestan province of Iran on 9 June. An
unspecified number of people from the villages of Patak Jalali and Patak Beygdeli, in Bagh-e Malek county, have been
displaced by the fighting. Alternative accounts suggest the fighting occurred in Ramhormoz county. Reports indicate that
heavy weaponry was used in the clashes, and that additional security measures have been requested to maintain order in
the affected areas. Local rivalries occasionally result in clashes in rural and remote areas of Khuzestan. These rivalries
often stem from competition for scarce resources, as well as localised inter-community grievances. Tensions between the
inhabitants of the villages of Patak Jalali and Patak Beygdeli have reportedly been elevated for years due to territorial and
water usage disagreements. It should be noted that sporadic outbreaks of localised violence can occur with little to no
warning; however, these incidents are usually not sustained and typically do not result in significant casualties. General
insecurity in the south east has also given rise to banditry and organised criminal activity, further increasing the travel and
operating risks to foreign nationals and visitors. Finally, separatist agitation in western Iran is elevated in some areas.
Tensions in the province remain elevated due to years of perceived governmental neglect and mismanagement. There are
groups present in Khuzestan that regularly claim or are suspected of carrying out attacks against the state.
Advice: Heightened caution is advised in the province of Khuzestan, where separatist groups operate. Clients travelling
in the region should avoid unnecessary travel near security force and state personnel and facilities.
IRAQ (Country risk rating: High); 9 June; Suicide bombing in Musayyib, Babil governorate
At least 20 people were killed and 34 wounded following a suicide bombing at a market in Musayyib, located in Iraq's
central Babil governorate, on 9 June. The attack, which has since been claimed by the Islamic State (IS), is said to have
taken place hours after a similar bombing in Karbala (Karbala governorate) left several wounded. Central Iraq is regularly
affected by acts of terrorism. These incidents are typically perpetrated by members of IS against Shiite Muslim, state and
civilian interests. Following attacks, increased security and the implementation of travel restrictions should be expected. It
should be noted that as there are regular attacks in the region, further bombings are possible in the near-term.
Advice: Clients are advised against all travel to Babil governorate, including Musayyib, due to the elevated conflict and
terrorism risks. Persons currently in and/or travelling to the governorate despite this advisory should adopt robust security
measures, such as coordinating all movements with a security escort and ensuring that all accommodation is sought within
secure compounds.
MOROCCO (Country risk rating: Medium); 9 to 11 June; (Update) Large peaceful AlHoceima-related protest in Rabat
Thousands of people gathered peacefully near Parliament in Morocco's capital, Rabat, on 11 June in support of antigovernment protests and protesters in Al-Hoceima. The protest in Rabat was led by several groups, including Al Adl wal
Ihsane, an Islamist organisation. The group, banned from politics, was prominent during pro-reform protests in 2011. The
northern town of Al-Hoceima has been affected by near nightly demonstrations since late May, following the arrest of a
local protest leader, Nasser Zefzafi, who is a leader of Hirak (Al-Hirak al-Shaabi or 'Popular Movement'). On 9 June,
violence was reported at an associated demonstration in Imzouren, located near Al-Hoceima. At least 20 police officers
and protesters were wounded. Further protests are anticipated in Al-Hoceima, as well as surrounding towns and urban
centres across the country, including in Rabat, over the near-term. The arrest on 10 June of another Hirak leader, El
Mortada Iamrachen, will likely exacerbate tensions further. The protests, which began in October 2016 after the killing of a
fish vendor, have gained renewed momentum after the recent arrests. Although Al-Hoceima has been the epicentre of the
demonstrations, related protests have also occurred regularly in Imzouren, Beni Bouayach, Casablanca, Marrakech, Fez,
Kenitra, Oujda, Nador and, as demonstrated recently, in Rabat. These have been largely peaceful; however, incidents of
low-level violence have been periodically reported. There is a threat of further violence and a further intensification of the
protests. Protests may subside if Zefzafi and other activists are released and if the government makes concessions to meet
the protesters' demands, which include calls for greater investment in the local community and policies to address
unemployment and poor education facilities.
Advice: Clients in Morocco, particularly in recent protest-affected areas, should exercise caution. All street gatherings
should be avoided as a standard precaution.
YEMEN (Country risk rating: Extreme); 11 June; (Update) Cholera outbreak persists
countrywide
The World Health Organisation (WHO) issued a statement on 11 June indicating that a cholera outbreak in Yemen has
now infected 116,700 people since late April. The outbreak has also left 859 people dead. At least 20 of the country's 22
governorates are affected. Yemen's health sector has struggled to contain the disease and the general humanitarian crisis
in the country. International health experts have indicated that the health sector is on the verge of collapse. Approximately
19 million of the country's 27 million people are reliant on humanitarian aid. The conflict and insecurity have undermined
the ability of the local medical sector to respond to the outbreak. Only 45 percent of the country's hospitals are operational
and there are widespread shortages of medicines and other medical supplies. Remaining facilities are also overcrowded.
Water quality in the country remains poor and supplies are scarce, further exacerbating the current outbreak. Cholera is
an acute diarrhoeal disease caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the Vibrio cholerae bacteria. The
infection is often mild or devoid of symptoms. In a minority of cases, however, patients experience severe symptoms.
Advice: Clients in the country should take adequate precautions with food and beverage consumption. Drink only bottled
or treated water, and wash hands regularly with soap and water. Eat only thoroughly cooked food. Persons requiring
additional information should contact their medical practitioner. Please note that due to several security concerns, clients
are advised against all travel to Yemen, excluding Socotra.
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Sub-Saharan Africa
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO (Country risk rating: High); 11 June; Attack on
prison in Beni, Nord-Kivu
Reports indicate that 11 people were killed in an attack on a prison in Beni, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)'s
Nord-Kivu province, on 11 June. Over 930 inmates escaped after unidentified assailants attacked the prison. A curfew has
been imposed in and around Beni. The prison break follows a similar incident in Kinshasa on 10 June, which saw at least
three inmates escape; this was preceded by a mass prison break in the city in May, which saw thousands of inmates
escape. A security increase is expected in Beni and surrounding areas. Security checkpoints are also likely on surrounding
routes, including roads into Beni. Authorities will likely maintain the checkpoints for the duration of the curfew and may
search all vehicles travelling out of the city. Beni may experience an increase in criminality over the short-term, as well as
an increased threat of violent confrontations as security forces continue efforts to apprehend escapees still at large.
Advice: Clients in Beni are advised to restrict movements and to exercise heightened caution when dealing with strangers
until authorities apprehend the escaped inmates. Clients intending to travel to Beni are advised to monitor local media for
updates on local security conditions. Clients should carry identification documents, follow the instructions of police and
soldiers, and be prepared for vehicle searches at security checkpoints. If accosted by criminals, it is strongly advisable to
remain calm and to comply with their demands. Any directives issued by local authorities in relation to the current situation
in the city should be adhered to. All suspicious persons should be reported to the relevant authorities immediately. Finally,
clients are advised against all travel to the eastern Nord-Kivu province, due to the ongoing threat posed by various armed
groups.
GUINEA (Country risk rating: High); 8 and 9 June; Disruptive service delivery protests
reported in Kamsar
One person was killed and several people were wounded during disruptive service delivery-related protests in the city of
Kamsar, located in Guinea's north western Kamsar sub-prefecture, approximately 53km south west of the city of Boke, on
8 and 9 June. Violent clashes between protesters and security forces, as well as acts of vandalism and looting, took place.
Agitators reportedly set up road blockades with burning objects on road networks in the areas of Kassapo and Kayenguissa;
roads between N'Toumoun and Bagataye were affected. Commercial and travel disruptions were reported. The
demonstrations were launched to demand electricity in the affected communities. Guinea continues to face significant
issues related to the distribution of electricity services to most of its population, particularly those in rural areas. Indeed, the
urban-rural electricity service disparity in Guinea is considered to be one of the most pronounced when compared to other
countries in the region. Due to ongoing challenges, including poor and run-down electrical infrastructure, authorities in the
country are unlikely to resolve the power supply issues in the near-term. As such, further related protests cannot be
discounted in the short- to medium-term. It should be noted that all protest activity in the country carries an elevated risk of
violence.
Advice: Persons in Kamsar sub-prefecture are advised to avoid all large street gatherings and concentration of security
forces as a general precaution. Local media should be monitored for updates on protest locations and associated activities.
MALI (Country risk rating: High); 10 June; Demonstration in Bamako forcibly dispersed by
security forces
Security forces are said to have used tear gas to forcibly disperse a protest gathering in Mali's capital, Bamako, on 10
June. The demonstration was reportedly organised by the civil society group, 'Trop c'est Trop', to denounce an upcoming
constitutional referendum on 9 July. Although no casualties were reported in the wake of the police intervention, it should
be noted that on 8 June at least ten people were wounded following similar crowd dispersal tactics at a related protest. As
the grievances behind these agitations remain unresolved, further demonstrations are possible in the coming days.
Precedent suggests that there is a credible risk of clashes between protesters and security forces at politically motivated
gatherings in Mali, posing an incidental risk to bystanders and participants alike.
Advice: Persons operating in Bamako should monitor local media for announcements of any upcoming demonstrations
and related advisories from the authorities. All protest gatherings and concentrations of security forces should be avoided
as a standard precaution. Clients are further advised to make allowances for localised travel and business disruptions in
the vicinity of protest-affected sites; heightened caution should be exercised throughout the city.
SOMALIA (Country risk rating: Extreme); 9 June; Fatal clashes at food distribution site in
Baidoa
At least 14 people were killed and 20 others wounded in armed clashes between security force personnel in Baidoa, in
Somalia's southern Bay region, on 9 June. Many of the casualties are believed to have been civilians. The fighting broke
out at a food distribution site after some soldiers attempted to steal food meant for displaced people, and another group of
soldiers intervened. The security environment in the region has been aggravated by ongoing drought and famine, which
has resulted in an influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs) into areas such as Baidoa, and other cities. High levels of
corruption among security forces, as well as the high number of IDPs and the limited ability of security forces to combat
the resultant increased criminal activity, have exacerbated the insecurity in the region. Clashes between soldiers at food
distribution points have been reported in Somalia in the past; the possibility of similar violence at aid collection points and
other humanitarian facilities cannot be discounted. Such violence poses an indiscriminate risk to civilians and aid workers.
Advice:
Due to various security concerns, all travel to Somalia is advised against, except Puntland and Somaliland,
where non-essential is advised against. Clients operating in the country despite this advisory should implement robust
travel, residential and personal security measures at all times, regardless of location.
SOUTH AFRICA (Country risk rating: High); 8 to 12 June; (Update) Fatalities amid Garden
Route wildfires
At least seven people have been killed as a result of ongoing wildfires in parts of the Garden Route region, located in South
Africa's Western Cape province, since 8 June. Although officials assert that the majority of the fires have been contained,
including in Buffalo Bay, George and Sedgefield, as many as 1,106 firefighters reportedly remain deployed in affected
areas to mitigate the threat of flare-ups. Plettenberg Bay and Knysna remain the worst affected by the fires to date; in
addition to sustaining significant infrastructural damage, localised evacuation orders and disruptions to utilities (such as
water, telecommunications and electricity) continue to be reported in these towns. The exact cause of the wildfires remains
under investigation; however, unconfirmed reports indicate that several of the blazes could have been the result of arson.
It should be noted that, while the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has forecast possible rainfall in the Garden Route
in the coming days, further gale force winds may exacerbate efforts to control any remaining fire hotspots.
Advice:
Clients are advised to defer travel to the affected areas until further notice. Persons currently in the affected
areas should comply with the directives of local authorities, including any further evacuation advisories, and should monitor
local media for updates on the situation. In addition, clients with respiratory conditions are advised to take the necessary
measures to avoid smoke inhalation.
SOUTH SUDAN (Country risk rating: Extreme); 5 and 8 June; Armed attacks along JubaNimule Road
At least 14 people were killed and a further nine wounded following an armed attack on their convoy on South Sudan's
Juba-Nimule Road, early on 8 June. Unidentified gunmen are said to have ambushed the vehicles while they were en route
from Nimule (Imatong state) to the capital, Juba (Jubek state). Unconfirmed reports indicate that several of the deceased
were government soldiers who were serving as military escorts at the time of the assault. The incident follows shortly after
a similar attack along the road on 5 June, which left at least one dead and three wounded. Although the identity of those
behind these latest attacks remains unclear, suspicion has reportedly fallen on local militants operating in the area. These
incidents highlight the extreme-risk operating environment in South Sudan, as well as the ongoing risk associated with road
travel in the country. Primary roads used for travel between urban centres, such as the Juba-Nimule Road, carry elevated
risks of hijacking and kidnapping, as armed bandits are known to operate along such routes. As the security situation in
the country is unlikely to improve in the near- to medium-term, further similar incidents are likely. Road travel outside main
urban centres should, therefore, be avoided where possible.
Advice:
Clients are advised against all travel to South Sudan due to ongoing conflict and political instability. Persons
operating in the country should ensure that crisis management plans are regularly reviewed and updated, in conjunction
with a security provider. Clients in the country are further advised to travel with a security escort and to reside in secure
compounds or hotels. The security and political environment should be closely monitored. Cross-country travel should only
be conducted following a full route-specific risk assessment.
ZAMBIA (Country risk rating: Medium); 12 June; (Update) Heightened security in place at
the High Court in Lusaka
Heightened security has been put in place outside Zambia's High Court in the capital, Lusaka, ahead of the court
appearance of opposition leader, Hakainde Hichilema, on 12 June. Hichilema, leader of the United Party for National
Development (UPND), along with five others, is facing a treason charge. Further details about the proceedings for the day
are unavailable at present. This is set to be Hichilema's third court appearance since he was arrested and formally charged
on 18 April; Hichilema's previous court appearances took place amid an elevated security force presence on 11 and 26
May. Hichilema faces treason charges after his convoy allegedly obstructed President Edgar Lungu's motorcade during a
ceremony in the Western province. Due to the controversial nature of the court hearing and Hichilema's high levels of
support in the country, opposition-led protests are likely on the day. As such, elevated security measures are expected,
including the deployment of additional security personnel in the vicinity of the High Court. Travel disruptions are anticipated
on the day, including restrictions along roads near the courthouse, including Halle Selassie Avenue, Independence Avenue,
Chikwa Road and Birdcage Walk Road. There is a credible risk of low-level violence and skirmishes between security
forces and agitators at all politically motivated gatherings in the country.
Advice: Clients in Lusaka over the coming days should monitor local media for updates on the trial and related protests.
All street protests and politically motivated gatherings should be avoided as a standard precaution.
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