AMERICAS

Colombia (Security threat level – 4): At approximately 2245 local time (0145 UTC) on 19 January 2022, a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) detonated near a police station and the offices of several humanitarian organizations in the downtown area of Saravena, a city located in the northeastern department of Arauca. Reports indicate that gunfire accompanied the explosion. At least one security guard was killed and five people were injured in the blast. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack; however, the vehicle used in the attack had reportedly been stolen several days before by suspected members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) dissident groups.

ASIA

Pakistan (Security threat level – 5): On 20 January 2022, a large explosion occurred near the Anarkali Bazaar in Lahore, the capital of Punjab province. At least three people were killed and 28 more suffered injuries, while several nearby businesses sustained damage. Security officials later stated that the blast was caused by the detonation of a motorcycle used as a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED). No group has claimed responsibility for the attack; however, it follows recent attacks targeting police officers in cities such as the capital Islamabad that were claimed by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan militant group, which has also threatened to carry out additional attacks in the country.

Thailand (Security threat level – 3) : On 20 January 2022, government officials announced plans to reinstate quarantine waivers for vaccinated foreign travelers as of 1 February, along with some additional requirements. Under the revised nationwide “Test & Go” scheme, international travelers may forgo self-isolation if they provide proof of full vaccination and a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours before departure. Additionally, they will be required to submit to RT-PCR tests upon arrival and on the fifth day after arrival, as well as allow authorities to track their movements. Authorities suspended the waiver in December 2021 due to concerns over the omicron variant of COVID-19.

SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

Liberia (Security threat level – 4): At approximately 2100 local time/UTC on 19 January 2022, a group of armed assailants targeted a congregation of worshippers in the town of New Kru, located on northern Bushrod Island approximately 4 mi (6.5 km) north of central Monrovia. A stampede ensued after the gang attempted to rob churchgoers with machetes, knives and other weapons. Authorities confirmed that approximately 30 people were killed and several more were injured in the stampede. Police officers arrested at least one suspect in relation to the violence.