ASIA

India (Security threat level – 3): On 5 May 2022, police officers detained four suspected terrorists near the Bastara toll plaza in the northern city of Karnal. Reports indicate that the suspects originated from Punjab and were transporting ammunition, explosive devices and other weapons to Adilabad, located within Telangana state. The suspects were not immediately linked to any militant group.

AUSTRALASIA

Australia (Security threat level – 2): On 5 May 2022, a spokesperson for the Transport Workers Union in Melbourne announced that a 24-hour bus drivers’ strike will take place on 6 May. The union announced the strike following failed negotiations with the city over increased wages and better working conditions. The one-day strike is expected to include more than 1,500 bus drivers and affect public transportation networks and traffic conditions throughout Melbourne’s eastern, northeastern and southern suburbs. The bus drivers are expected to return to their jobs on 7 May.

MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA

Iraq (Security threat level – 5): On 5 May 2022, a large sandstorm affected much of Iraq, spanning six provinces – including Baghdad governorate, where the capital is located. At least one person died as a result of the sandstorm and another 5,000 have sought medical treatment for respiratory issues. Officials in Al-Anbar province reported more than 700 cases of respiratory ailments, while Salaheddin province reported more than 300 cases and Najaf province recorded an additional 100 cases. The sandstorm was the seventh to hit Iraq in the last month.

Analyst Comment: Iraq has experienced record drought and high temperatures in the last several years.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Philippines (Security threat level – 4): On 5 May 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Manila issued a Demonstration Alert, which reads in part as follows: “The Philippine national elections are scheduled for Monday, May 9, 2022, from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Large political rallies are expected in the Metro Manila area and throughout the Philippines, as well as traffic disruptions in proximity to polling places. As a reminder, Philippine law prohibits foreign nationals from engaging in partisan political activities.”

Sri Lanka (Security threat level – 4): On 5 May 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo issued a Demonstration Alert regarding upcoming protests on 5-6 May, which reads in part as follows: “The U.S. Embassy is aware of the following demonstrations:

• May 5: A group of approximately 3,000 is planning to hold a demonstration the afternoon starting in front of Sir Jayewardenepura University (to the east of Mt. Lavinia) and marching to Parliament junction (near Water’s Edge).
• May 5: A group of approximately 1,000 is planning to assemble at 12:30 p.m. at Victoria Park in Colombo and march to Parliament junction (near Water’s Edge). Road closures and congested traffic is expected.
•  May 6: A group of approximately 1,000 will gather at 11:00 a.m. in front of the Health Ministry.
• May 6: Groups are expected to gather in capital cities across the country. Organizers are calling for people to raise black flags, dress in black, close shops, stop work, and engage in demonstrations throughout the country.

“Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. U.S. Government personnel have been advised to avoid the protests.”