Topic: Security Updates

AFRICA

Somalia (Security threat level – 5): At approximately 1430 local time (1130 UTC) on 29 October 2022, members of the al-Shabab militant group conducted an attack on the Ministry of Education headquarters at Zobe junction in the capital Mogadishu. The attackers detonated two car bombs outside the ministry before storming the building. Security personnel exchanged gunfire with the militants inside the building and cordoned off several adjacent streets. At least 100 people were killed in the attack and 300 more were injured — most of them civilians.

No government officials were present at the building at the time; however, the attack corresponded with a government conference regarding an al-Shabab counterinsurgency taking place at a separate location in Mogadishu. The attack — along with the murders of prominent clan leaders elsewhere in Somalia — was likely in retaliation for an offensive by the Somali government and attempts by government entities to shut down al-Shabab’s financial network.

ASIA

India (Security threat level – 3): At approximately 1830 local time (1300 UTC) on 30 October 2022, a suspension bridge collapsed and plunged hundreds of pedestrians into the Machchhu river in Morbi district of the western Gujarat state. Nearly 300-400 people were traversing the bridge when it gave way. According to local authorities, at least 134 people were killed, and about 100 others were rescued and transferred to nearby hospitals. The colonial-era bridge had recently undergone a seven-month-long renovation before reopening on 26 October prior to the Diwali holiday. Authorities have stated that the collapse may have been related to an excessive number of pedestrians crossing the bridge at the same time. A special investigative committee has been formed to launch a probe and determine the cause of the bridge collapse.

Russia / Ukraine (Security threat levels – 4 / 5): On the morning of 31 October 2022, the Russian military launched a barrage of missiles targeting several Ukrainian cities, including the capital Kyiv. Three explosions were reported in Kyiv after missiles struck a major energy facility that supplies power to more than 350,000 customers. The missile attacks disrupted water supply and transportation services in parts of the capital city. The airstrikes also targeted the cities of Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia, as well as the Dnipropetrovsk, Lviv and Vinnytsia regions. Ukrainian officials claim that Russia launched 50 cruise missiles targeting critical infrastructure facilities throughout Ukraine, resulting in major power outages nationwide. There were no immediate reports of casualties. The attacks occurred after Russian officials accused the Ukrainian military of carrying out a drone attack against a Russian warship near the city of Sevastopol on 29 October.

South Korea (Security threat level – 2): On the night of 29 October 2022, a stampede occurred during a Halloween celebration in an alleyway near the Hamilton Hotel in the Itaewon district of central Seoul. At least 800 emergency response personnel were dispatched to the area to administer life-saving aid and transport the injured to local hospitals. At least 153 people died and more than 150 others were injured in the stampede. Authorities stated that about 20 foreign nationals were among the dead while 15 others were reported injured. The cause of the stampede remains unknown; however, initial reports indicate that the crowd began to surge following reports of a celebrity visiting a nearby location.

CENTRAL AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN

Haiti (Security threat level – 5): On 28 October 2022, suspected gang members assassinated Haitian politician Eric-Jean Baptiste while he was traveling to his residence located in the Laboule 12 area of the capital Port-au-Prince. The attackers opened fire on Baptiste’s vehicle, killing him and a security guard. Baptiste was the leader of the Rally of Progressive National Democrats Party and a former presidential candidate. While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, the Ti Malak gang controls the Laboule 12 area and has been accused of committing assassinations in the area.

EUROPE

France (Security threat level – 3): On 29 October 2022, thousands of demonstrators clashed with police officers at the future site of a water reservoir in Sainte-Soline, located in the Deux-Sèvres department. Approximately 1,400 police officers were deployed to the site in anticipation of demonstrations against the reservoir construction. Demonstrators attempted to force their way into the construction site, resulting in clashes with police officers who fired tear gas to disperse the crowd. Approximately 30 demonstrators and 61 police officers were injured in the violence.

SOUTH AMERICA

Brazil (Security threat level – 3): Former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva won the second round of the presidential election held on 30 October 2022. According to the Brazilian Superior Electoral Court, Lula garnered 50.9% of the vote to secure victory against incumbent President Jair Bolsonaro, who received 49.1% of the vote. Following the announcement, thousands of Lula’s supporters gathered in multiple cities, including central Rio de Janeiro, to celebrate his victory. Lula’s Inauguration ceremony is scheduled to take place on 1 January 2023. Bolsonaro has yet to concede defeat and has previously made unsubstantiated claims of possible electoral fraud. Demonstrations against Lula’s victory are possible across the country.

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Philippines (Security threat level – 4): As of 31 October 2022, Tropical Storm Nalgae has caused widespread damage and casualties throughout the Philippines after making landfall five times, affecting 1.8 million people in the southern, central and northern areas of the country. Officials at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (RPLL/MNL) in Manila shut down the runways at the facility for several hours on 29 October due to the storm. More than 100 domestic and internationals flights were canceled. An additional 157 flights were canceled on 30 October. The heavy rainfall inundated streets, highways and bridges, and downed trees and powerlines were reported across the region. The storm damaged nearly 4,200 homes. Officials announced that 101 people were killed, and 69 more were injured due to the effects of Nalgae. The southern autonomous region of Bangsamoro was most affected by the storm, accounting for 53 deaths due to floods and landslides. At least 63 people remain missing.

ASIA

Pakistan (Security threat level – 5): On 28 October 2022, a caravan of supporters affiliated with former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party gathered in the eastern city of Lahore for a protest march to the capital Islamabad via the Grand Trunk Road. Khan is leading the caravan to Islamabad to demand snap national elections after he was ousted from office in a parliamentary vote in early April 2022. The caravan is expected to travel through the cities of Daska, Gujjar Khan, Gujranwala, Kamonki and Rawalpindi, and tens of thousands of additional supporters are expected to join the march along the route before arriving in the capital city on 4 November. After entering Islamabad, Khan and his supporters are expected to stage a sit-in protest against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s coalition government.

EUROPE

Italy (Security threat level – 2): At approximately 1830 local time (1630 UTC) on 27 October 2022, a man stabbed five people at a store in the Milanofiori shopping center in the town of Assago — located in the southern part of the Milan metropolitan area. The attack began after the suspect took a knife from the shelves of the supermarket and proceeded to randomly stab customers. One person was killed and the other four were wounded. The attacker — who local media report has a history of mental health issues — was arrested at the scene. Authorities do not believe the stabbing spree was an act of terrorism.

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Philippines (Security threat level – 4): As of 1700 local time (0900 UTC) on 28 October 2022, Tropical Storm Nalgae was located approximately 660 km (410 mi) southeast of the capital Manila, according to the U.S. Joint Typhoon Warning Center. At that time, Nalgae was moving west at a speed of approximately 22 kph (13 mph), with maximum sustained winds of 75 kph and higher gusts. Nalgae is projected to strengthen as it tracks north toward Luzon Island and approaches Northern Samar province; the storm is expected to make landfall or pass close to the province on the night of 28 October.

Overnight on 27-28 October, Nalgae caused torrential downpours, heavy flooding and severe landslides throughout the southern area of the Philippines. On the southern Mindanao Island, heavy rain felled trees, downed powerlines and submerged dozens of local residences and businesses. According to local authorities, large areas of Cotabato city, located on Mindanao Island, continues to be inaccessible due to high floodwaters. Search and rescue personnel — who are conducting operations with boats and small rafts due to the flooding — have been deployed in Cotabato, as well as in Cebu City and the towns of Datu Blah Sinsuat, Datu Odin Sinduat and Upi. Officials at Manila International Airport (RPLL/MNL) have canceled at least nine flights due to inclement weather conditions. The effects of Tropical Storm Nalgae have killed at least 42 people, while several others remain missing.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Nigeria (Security threat level – 5): On 27 October 2022, the U.S. Mission to Nigeria issued a Security Alert, which reads in part as follows: “The Travel Advisory for Nigeria has been updated due to a heightened risk of terrorist attacks in Abuja. We recommend U.S. citizens do not travel to Abuja at this time. In addition, on October 27, 2022, the Department ordered the departure of family members of U.S. government employees from Abuja due to heightened risk of terrorist attacks, following on the October 25 authorization of departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members from Abuja due to heightened risk of terrorist attacks.”

MIDDLE EAST

Iran (Security threat level – 3): During the evening of 26 October 2022, gunmen opened fire at a shrine in the southwestern city of Shiraz, the capital of Fars province. Official state sources and other media provided contradictory informaiton on the number of attackers; however, at least one of the gunmen was detained. The attack killed at least 15 people and injured 40 others. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack.

Iran (Security threat level – 3): On 26 October 2022, anti-regime protests occurred in 33 Iranian cities across 23 provinces — including the cities of Mahabad, Saqqez, and the capital Tehran. Many protests became violent as security forces deployed tear gas and live ammunition against demonstrators, who set fire to buildings and to barricades in the streets.

In Mahabad, located in West Azerbaijan province, protesters set fire to a government office during a demonstration that occurred alongside the funeral of an individual killed during the recent protests. Security personnel deployed live ammunition at the demonstrators, killing at least one person.

In Saqqez, located in Kurdistan province approximately 70 km (45 mi) east of the Iran-Iraq border, police officers fired tear gas and live ammunition to disperse at least 10,000 demonstrators who had gathered at a memorial ceremony held at the gravesite of the young woman who died in police custody in early September, which triggered the ongoing nationwide protests. The graveside service was held 40 days after the victim’s death and marked the end of the Shiite mourning period.

Analyst Comment: It is likely that protests across Iran intensified on 26 October due to the ending of the customary Shiite mourning period of 40 days. Associated demonstrations are expected to continue in the coming days.

SOUTH AMERICA

Bolivia (Security threat level – 3): On the evening of 26 October 2022, clashes occurred between rival groups of demonstrators on Montes Avenue in central La Paz, the capital. Counterprotesters, who support President Luis Arce’s decision to hold the national census in 2024, threw firecrackers, sticks and stones toward demonstrators who had gathered to demand that the census be conducted in 2023. Police officers at the scene deployed tear gas to disperse the crowds. At least 20 individuals sustained injuries in the clashes. There were no immediate reports of arrests following the violence.

CENTRAL AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN

Panama (Security threat level – 3): On 25 October 2022, police officers fired tear gas to disperse protesting Social Security Fund (CSS) employees at Arnulfo Arias Madrid Hospital in the capital Panama City. The CSS employees — who were conducting a strike action to demand higher pay — claim that the officers deployed tear gas inside the hospital. Authorities stated that they used tear gas to disperse CSS employees who blocked workers from retrieving medical waste from the facility.

NORTH AMERICA

United States (Security threat level – 2): Shortly after 1140 local time (1840 UTC) on 25 October 2022, a 5.1 magnitude earthquake struck the San Francisco Bay Area, located in the state of California. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake occurred approximately 12 mi (20 km) east of the city of San Jose at an estimated depth of 5 miles. The tremor was felt across the area, prompting train operators to momentarily halt services in order to check for possible damage. Trains operated by Cal Train and the Bay Area Rapid Transit system experienced delays due to the incident. Aftershocks of magnitudes 3.5 and 2.9 followed the initial tremor. There were no reports of damage or casualties.

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Philippines (Security threat level – 4): At approximately 2300 local time (1500 UTC) on 25 October 2022, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck about 12 km (8 mi) east of the town of Dolores in Abra province — located near the northwestern coast of Luzon Island — at an estimated depth of 27 km, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Light to moderate shaking was felt throughout Luzon Island, including in the Manila metropolitan area — located approximately 320 km south of the earthquake’s epicenter — and in the western city of Baguio. Following the initial quake, authorities recorded approximately 430 aftershocks throughout Abra province.

Officials at Laoag International Airport (RPLI/LAO), located in Ilocos Norte province, suspended operations until 27 October after the discovery of several cracks in the airport’s sole runway. The quake also resulted in landslides that blocked roadways throughout Abra and Ilocos Norte provinces. At least 36 people were injured due to the quake, and several buildings were damaged.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Nigeria (Security threat level – 5): On 25 October 2022, the U.S. Department of State issued an updated Travel Advisory for Nigeria, which reads in part as follows: “On October 25, 2022, the Department authorized the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members due to the heightened risk of terrorist attacks. The U.S. Embassy Abuja continues to have limited ability to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Nigeria. The U.S. Consulate in Lagos is providing all routine and emergency services to U.S. citizens in Nigeria.”

The full text of the advisory can be found here.

South Africa (Security threat level – 4): On 26 October 2022, the U.S. Mission to South Africa issued a Security Alert warning that a terrorist attack may occur in Johannesburg, which reads in part as follows: “The U.S. government has received information that terrorists may be planning to conduct an attack targeting large gatherings of people at an unspecified location in the greater Sandton area of Johannesburg, South Africa, on 29 October 2022. There is no further information regarding the timing, method, or target of the potential attack. The U.S. Embassy has advised staff to avoid crowds of people and other large public gatherings in the greater Sandton area of Johannesburg during the weekend of 29-30 October 2022.”

AFRICA

Sudan (Security threat level – 5): At approximately 1430 local time (1230 UTC) on 25 October 2022, security personnel deployed tear gas to disperse more than 10,000 demonstrators who had gathered in the capital Khartoum to mark the one-year anniversary of the military takeover of government. The encounter with security personnel occurred as one group of demonstrators marched from southern Khartoum toward the presidential palace and another group marched across a bridge into Khartoum from the adjacent city of Omdurman toward the same location. Demonstrators were demanding the country’s military junta and its leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, relinquish power and return to their barracks. Information regarding arrests or injuries was not immediately available.

ASIA

Bangladesh / India (Security threat levels – 4 / 3): At approximately 2100 local time (1500 UTC) on 24 October 2022, Cyclone Sitrang made landfall between the southern Bangladeshi islands of Tinkona and Sandwip with maximum sustained winds of up to 90 kph (55 mph) and produced a storm surge of approximately 3 m (10 ft) in height along the southern coast. As of 0530 local time on 25 October, the storm had weakened into a deep depression and was located approximately 150 km (90 mi) northeast of the capital Dhaka. Sitrang was moving at about 20 kph in a north-northeasterly direction and is forecast to weaken further in the coming hours.

More than 250,000 residents were evacuated from the southwestern coast of Bangladesh prior to the storm’s arrival. Sitrang uprooted trees, downed power lines and destroyed homes, leaving approximately 8 million people without electricity across the country. Heavy flooding occurred in Dhaka, as well as in the cities of Khulna and Barishal. Officials reported at least 24 storm-related deaths but warned that the full extent of casualties is unknown due to widespread telecommunications outages. Meanwhile in northeastern India, authorities canceled 10 commercial flights, while railway officials halted train services between Agartala, the state capital of Tripura, and the cities of Sabroom and Dharmanagar.

A moderate rainfall warning is currently in effect for the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura. A wind warning is in effect for the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura, as well as for the Bay of Bengal and areas near the Bangladesh coast — as wind gusts of up to 40-50 kph are expected. Authorities are also warning of dangerous sea conditions and have advised maritime operators to avoid sailing near the Bay of Bengal until 1200 local time on 25 October.

EUROPE

United Kingdom (Security threat level – 3): Rishi Sunak, the new leader of the ruling Conservative Party, was officially appointed as the United Kingdom’s prime minister on 25 October 2022. Sunak, who previously served as the country’s chancellor of the exchequer under former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, was elected as the ruling party’s leader the previous day, following the resignation of outgoing Prime Minister Elizabeth Truss from the premiership on 20 October. Sunak has pledged to tackle economic issues, including high inflation rates and energy prices, which played a large role in the downfall of his predecessor.

MIDDLE EAST

Palestinian territories (Security threat level – 5): On the night of 24-25 October 2022, clashes occurred between Israeli security personnel and Palestinians in the West Bank city of Nablus. The fighting broke out during an Israeli security operation allegedly targeting the Lions’ Den armed group. Palestinian media sources reported gunfire and loud explosions in Nablus as Israeli security personnel launched drone strikes targeting the militant group. Palestinian officials stated that at least six Palestinians were killed and 21 more were wounded in the violence.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Guatemala (Security threat level – 4): On 24 October 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City issued an alert regarding nationwide planned demonstrations, which reads in part as follows: “The U.S. Embassy has received open-source reports that veterans of the Guatemalan Military may set up roadblocks and hold demonstrations throughout the country Tuesday, October 25 through Thursday, October 27.

“As always, the timing, size, and duration of planned demonstrations and roadblocks can change. Demonstrations can grow quickly in size and often move from one location to another, thus potentially disrupting movement. The Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens be aware and vigilant.”

AFRICA

Somalia (Security threat level – 5): At approximately 1200 local time (0900 UTC) on 23 October 2022, three al-Shabab militants launched an attack on the Tawakal Hotel in the port city of Kismayo, located in the southern Jubaland state. The attackers detonated a car bomb at the hotel’s main entrance before storming the building, which was hosting a meeting of state government officials. Security personnel then engaged in a gunbattle with the militants inside the hotel, which lasted for about eight hours. At least 12 people were killed — including all three gunmen — and 47 more were injured in the episode.

The attack on the Tawakal Hotel appears to have been a deliberate targeting of Jubaland’s government officials, who — along with large numbers of businesspeople — frequent the hotel for meetings and other events. Al-Shabab regularly carries out attacks on Somali government assets as part of the militant group’s ongoing campaign to seize power and territorial control across the country.

ASIA

Bangladesh (Security threat level – 4): At approximately 1500 local time (0900 UTC) on 24 October 2022, authorities announced the closure of Chattogram’s Shah Amanat International Airport (VCEG/CGP) and Cox’s Bazar International Airport (VGCB/CXB), both located along the southern coast of Bangladesh, due to inclement weather conditions brought by Cyclone Sitrang. The two airports will remain closed until 1200 local time on 25 October. Cyclone Sitrang is forecast to strengthen as it crosses over the Bay of Bengal before making landfall between the islands of Tinkona and Sandwip during the morning of 25 October.

CENTRAL AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN

Costa Rica (Security threat level – 3): On 22 October 2022, a twin-engine Piaggio P180 Avanti aircraft crashed into the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Costa Rica approximately 30 km (20 mi) from Limón international Airport (MRLM/LIO). The aircraft, which was carrying five German nationals and a Swiss pilot, was en route to the airport from Mexico. Search and rescue personnel have located the remains of the aircraft and retrieved the bodies of two individuals whom they have not yet identified.

NORTH AMERICA

Canada (Security threat level – 2): Shortly after 1600 local time (2000 UTC) on 22 October 2022, flight operations at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (CYTZ/YTZ), located on the Toronto Islands, were suspended following the discovery of a suspicious package attached to a bicycle parked near the airport’s mainland ferry terminal. The airport and ferry terminal, as well as two nearby residential buildings, were evacuated while police officers investigated the suspicious package. Authorities carried out a controlled explosion of the device at approximately 2300 local time and declared that there was no longer a threat to public safety. Authorities detained two people in relation to the incident but later released them. Flights through the facility resumed on the morning of 23 October.

Mexico (Security threat level – 4): At approximately 0530 local time (1130 UTC) on 22 October 2022, Hurricane Roslyn made landfall near the town of Santa Cruz in the western Nayarit state, a thinly populated area. At the time, Roslyn was at Category 3 strength with maximum sustained winds of 195 kph (120 mph) and higher gusts. Rainfall from the storm caused heavy flooding and landslides in the affected areas. Local media reports indicate that one person was killed in the district of Mexcaltitan de Santiago Ixcuintla and another in Rosamorada, both located in Nayarit, after the individuals attempted to shelter in unsafe building structures. In the state capital Tepic, high winds and heavy rains felled trees, downed power lines and caused a landslide that blocked off a main highway. In the municipality of San Blas, some residences sustained damage while others lost power. Minor structural damage and power outages were reported in the tourist destination of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco state. The Federal Electricity Commission stated that more than 150,000 customers lost power due to the passage of Hurricane Roslyn. The storm has since dissipated after moving farther inland over central Mexico.

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Philippines (Security threat level – 4): At approximately 2300 local time (1500 UTC) on 24 October 2022, Korean Air flight KE631 carrying 165 passengers and 11 crew members overshot the runway upon landing at Mactan–Cebu International Airport (RPVM/CEB) and came to a halt in a grassy area with a collapsed front nose gear. The Airbus A330-322 aircraft, which originated at Seoul’s Incheon International Airport (RKSI/ICN), had aborted two landing attempts amid heavy rainfall before the incident, which significantly damaged the aircraft. All individuals on board disembarked the aircraft using emergency slides. There were no reports of injuries. Dozens of flights scheduled to operate through the facility have since been canceled, as the aircraft still remains at the site.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Nigeria (Security threat level – 5): On 23 October 2022, the U.S. Embassy issued a warning regarding a heightened threat of terrorist attacks in the Abuja Federal Capital Territory area, which reads in part as follows: “There is an elevated risk of terror attacks in Nigeria, specifically in Abuja. Targets may include, but are not limited to, government buildings, places of worship, schools, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants, athletic gatherings, transport terminals, law enforcement facilities, and international organizations. The U.S. Embassy will offer reduced services until further notice.”

AFRICA

Chad (Security threat level – 5): On 20 October 2022, Prime Minister Saleh Kebzabo enacted a 1800-0600 local time (1700-0500 UTC) nightly curfew in the capital N’Djamena and the towns of Doba and Koumra — both located in southern Chad near the country’s border with the Central African Republic — following large-scale anti-government protests in the country. Additionally, Kebzabo announced the suspension of all social and political activities for three opposition parties — Les Transformateurs, the Socialist Party Without Borders (PSF) and the Wakit Tamma coalition — that organized the unauthorized demonstrations earlier the same day. In N’Djamena, demonstrations quickly turned violent as protesters broke through barricades erected by police officers and set fire to the headquarters of the prime minister’s National Rally for Democracy party. Police officers used live ammunition and tear gas in an attempt to dispel the demonstrators; however, protests and related violence soon spread to other cities and towns in Chad, including Moundou, Koumra and Doba. At least 60 people were killed, including approximately 10 security personnel, and an additional 500 people injured in the violence throughout the country.

The ruling Transitional Military Council (TMC) formed a national unity government on 14 October to govern Chad until the implementation of democratic elections. Although the TMC originally stated that elections would take place in 2022, the deadline was extended to 2024, infuriating opposition and civil society groups.

Analyst Comment: While addressing the violence occurring throughout the country, Kebzabo referred to the anti-government demonstrations and related violence as an “insurrection and a rebellion to seize power by force.” Kebzabo’s comments indicate that the TMC will likely perceive any additional unauthorized demonstrations or defiance of the nightly curfew as an attempt by opposition groups to foment further unrest and social instability. Therefore, it is highly likely that authorities will continue to deal with the current unrest harshly, using maximum force.

ASIA

Pakistan (Security threat level – 5): On 21 October 2022, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) disqualified former Prime Minister Imran Khan from holding office for five years because of his corrupt acceptance and resale of gifts from foreign entities. Specifically, the commission noted that Khan had made false declarations related to the resale of gifts given to him by Saudi Arabian and Emirati leaders while in office — an illegal act according to Pakistan’s constitution. Khan’s Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has called on their supporters to protest the ruling. Local media sources report protests are already occurring in the cities of Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar.

Analyst Comment: Despite his ouster following a parliamentary vote of no confidence vote in April 2022, Khan maintains substantial support in Pakistan. Travelers should expect increasing protests in Pakistani cities in the coming days to oppose the ruling, some of which may become violent.

NORTH AMERICA

Mexico (Security threat level – 4): As of 0700 local time (1200 UTC), Tropical Storm Roslyn was located approximately 305 km (190 mi) south of the western coastal city of Manzanillo in Colima state and about 475 km south-southeast of the municipality of Cabo Corrientes in Jalisco state, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center. At that time, the storm was moving southeast at a speed of 11 kph (7 mph) and had maximum sustained winds of 100 kph, with higher gusts. Roslyn is forecast to strengthen into a hurricane on the evening of 21 October and turn northwest until 22 October. The storm is then expected to track parallel to the southwestern Mexican coast before making landfall in west-central Mexico overnight on 22-23 October.

The storm is expected to produce the following amount of rainfall: 25-75 mm (1-3 in) in the states of Guerrero and Michoacan; 50-100 mm in Colima and Jalisco, with isolated maximums of up to 150 mm; and 100-150 mm in the states of Nayarit and Sinaloa, as well as on the Islas Marías archipelago, with maximum rainfall of up to 200 mm. The heavy rainfall could cause flash floods and landslides in west-central Mexico. Additionally, storm-generated swells are likely to cause hazardous surf and riptide conditions along the coastline on 22-23 October. A Hurricane Warning is currently in effect from Playa Perula Beach to Cabo Corrientes. A Hurricane Watch is in effect from Cabo Corrientes to the town of El Roblito in Nayarit state, as well as for Las Islas Marias. Additionally, A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect from the south of Playa Perula to Manzanillo city.

Mexico (Security threat level – 4): On 20 October 2022, a fuel tanker collided with an overpass as a cargo train carrying flammable materials passed by on Aguascalientes Avenue in the central area of the Mexican city of Aguascalientes. The explosion from the accident and subsequent blaze damaged more than 120 homes and 50 vehicles. Authorities ordered the evacuation of approximately 1,500 people from a nearby residential area. First responders rescued 12 people trapped in their homes due to flames. Apart from one person suffering from the effects of smoke inhalation, there were no reported injuries. Initial reports indicate that the driver of the fuel tanker — who has since been arrested — had attempted to recklessly pass through the rail crossing to avoid waiting for the train’s passage. The affected sections of the Federal Highway 40 are closed until further notice.

SOUTH AMERICA

Uruguay (Security threat level – 2): On the morning of 20 October 2022, approximately 10,000 demonstrators marched from the University of the Republic to the Legislative Palace in the capital Montevideo. Workers arrived in buses and trucks from other parts of Uruguay to participate in the protest organized by the Single National Union of Construction and Annexes (Sunca) to demand higher wages, employment opportunities and improved working conditions. Traffic was heavily disrupted due to the demonstration. While there are no protests scheduled for 21 October, travelers in Montevideo should prepare for sporadic protests to cause traffic delays.

AFRICA

Chad (Security threat level – 5): On 19 October 2022, Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby declared a state of emergency amid monsoon rains that have affected more than one million people across the country. Widespread flooding and landslides have affected residents in 18 out of 23 provinces, particularly in southern Chad, and have displaced approximately 50,000 people. Deby imposed the state of emergency to aid in providing shelter, food and other basic services to the affected residents.

Chad (Security threat level – 5): On 20 October 2022, police officers clashed with pro-democracy demonstrators who had gathered in the capital N’Djamena to oppose the Transitional Military Council. Demonstrators burned tires and erected barricades on several roads to block traffic in the city. Media sources indicate that security personnel fired tear gas and live ammunition at the protesters. At least two people were reportedly killed in the violence and 30 others were injured. Additional clashes between police officers and demonstrators were reported in Mongo city, the capital of Guéra region.

Guinea (Security threat level – 4): On the morning of 20 October 2022, police officers fired tear gas to disperse protesters in the capital Conakry during a demonstration organized to demand that government officials establish dates for future democratic elections. Protesters and police officers clashed in several areas of Conakry after protesters burned tires in the streets, pushed trash cans onto roads and threw rocks at security personnel. The National Front for the Defense of the Constitution (FNDC), a banned opposition coalition, had organized the protest. The FNDC stated that five people suffered gunshot wounds during the violence.

Mozambique (Security threat level – 4): On 20 October 2022, Islamist insurgents attacked a ruby mining operation owned by the India-based DiaColor International DMCC company in the Muaja village area of Cabo Delgado province — located east of Montepuez, the province’s second largest city. According to local media reports, communication with the management at the mine has been compromised, and additional details regarding the attack are unavailable. In a related development, officials at Montepuez Ruby Mining Limitada — located approximately 12 km (7 mi) northwest of the mine that was attacked — ceased operations and began evacuating local staff to the nearby cities of Nanhupo and Namanhumbir. An Islamist insurgency has been ongoing in Cabo Delgado province since 2017.

ASIA

Bangladesh (Security threat level – 4): On 19 October 2022, the Khulna Bus-Minibus Association and the Khulna Moro Sramik Union announced a strike of public transport services during 21-22 October amid a dispute regarding the operation of non-mechanized vehicles in the southwestern city of Khulna. The strike is expected to affect public transportation and bus services in Khulna district. Members of the transport unions have stated that the strike is being organized to protest the failure of local authorities to enforce a High Court ban regarding non-mechanized vehicles operating on local roads and highways. The industrial action coincides with a political rally called by the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Khulna city on 22 October.

EUROPE

United Kingdom (Security threat level – 3): On 20 October 2022, U.K. Prime Minister Elizabeth Truss announced her resignation from the premiership following calls from leaders of her Conservative Party to step down from office. Truss failed to implement her promised economic policies, including a tax-cutting budget, during her 45-day tenure, which caused uncertainty in financial markets. Truss stated that the party will elect a new leader to succeed her within the next week.

SOUTH AMERICA

Colombia (Security threat level – 4): On 19 October 2022, demonstrators clashed with police officers near the Avianca building in the central area of the capital Bogotá. The protesters — members of the Embera indigenous community — had gathered to demand better living conditions, during which participants threw stones and attacked police officers with sticks. At least 27 people were injured in the violence, including 15 police officers. Additionally, security personnel arrested two people.

AFRICA

Nigeria (Security threat level – 5): On the morning of 19 October 2022, clashes broke out between merchants and members of local criminal gangs at Alaba International Market in Ojo Local Government Area — located in southwestern Lagos — after the gang members stormed the market. Footage on social media shows individuals armed with sticks and other homemade weapons amid large crowds rushing through the market grounds. An unspecified number of individuals reportedly sustained injuries in the violence. Shops inside the market remain closed. A reason for the occurrence remains unclear; local reports suggest the violence may be related to the criminal gangs’ demands for extortion money from the merchants.

ASIA

Bangladesh (Security threat level – 4): On 18 October 2022, a senior leader of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) announced that party members will engage in countrywide demonstrations on 20 October — excluding in Khulna division, located in southwestern Bangladesh — to protest security raids made on the homes of opposition leaders and cadres. In the capital Dhaka, rallies and demonstrations are expected to occur near the party’s central office located on VIP road in the Naya Paltan area, in addition to other central locations in cities across the country. The BNP is also expected to organize another rally on 22 October in Khulna city, the capital of Khulna division.

EUROPE

Italy (Security threat level – 2): On 18 October 2022, trade unions in the aviation and public transportation sectors called for a nationwide 24-hour strike on 21 October in response to ongoing disputes over wages and labor contracts. ITA Airways canceled more than 200 domestic and international flights scheduled for 21 October due to a strike action headed by employees of Italy’s air traffic control company. Flights to and from airports in Milan and Rome, as well as several other domestic flights throughout Italy, will be affected by the strike action. ITA officials have begun efforts to reschedule passengers affected by flight cancellations to available flights. Travelers whose flights have not been canceled are still advised to monitor the status of their flights prior to arriving at the airport. Additionally, train and bus drivers plan to begin their industrial action on the morning of 21 October, which will likely cause further disruptions to transportation services throughout the day.

MIDDLE EAST

Iran (Security threat level – 3): As of 18 October 2022, mass anti-government protests that began on 17 September following the death of a young woman in police custody are ongoing. Demonstrations have reportedly occurred in more than 80 cities — including in Ahvaz, Isfahan, Rasht and the capital Tehran — and several protests have turned violent due to attempts by police officers to suppress the action. Security personnel monitoring the demonstrations often use force and weapons to detain demonstrators and disperse the crowds. Thus far, foreign human rights groups have reported more than 200 fatalities during the countrywide demonstrations.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Malaysia (Security threat level – 3): On 19 October 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur issued a Security Alert, which reads in part as follows: “Local media recently reported two incidents of violent crime near the 430-440 block of Jalan Tun Razak. Assailants murdered one foreign tourist and injured another in two separate incidents at the Zouk Bar located at 436 Jalan Tun Razak.

“U.S. government personnel and family members are prohibited from visiting the Zouk bar. When visiting other establishments in the neighborhood, U.S. government personnel and family members are strongly advised to depart the neighborhood no later than 2100hrs (9:00 pm). American citizens are advised to take the same precautions.”

ASIA

Russia (Security threat level – 4): At approximately 1900 local time (1600 UTC) on 17 October 2022, a Russian military aircraft conducting a training flight crashed into a multi-story apartment building in the southwestern city of Yeysk, located in Russia’s Krasnodar region. The crash caused a large explosion and fire at the site, killing 13 people and injuring 19 others. Emergency personnel rescued 68 people during search and rescue operations. Two crew members abord the Sukhoi Su-34 aircraft successfully ejected shortly before the crash. Russian military officials claim that engine failure during takeoff caused the crash. Russia’s Investigative Committee has launched a criminal probe into the event.

CENTRAL AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN

Haiti (Security threat level – 5): On the afternoon of 17 October 2022, police officers forcibly dispersed protesters who had gathered outside the main entrance of the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince during demonstrations to demand the departure of Prime Minister Ariel Henry and to oppose foreign military intervention in Haiti. Local media reported that officers fired tear gas and live ammunition to disperse the crowd. However, there were no reports of casualties connected to the incident. The demonstrations coincided with a split vote in the U.N. Security Council regarding whether to deploy an international force to Haiti to assist the government in combating widespread gang violence and a cholera outbreak.

EUROPE

Belgium (Security threat level – 3): On the afternoon of 18 October 2022, authorities at Brussels South Charleroi Airport (EBCI/CRL), located in the city of Charleroi, Wallonia region, suspended all departing flights until further notice due to an ongoing strike action by airport security personnel that began on 17 October. Earlier in the day, passengers attempted to breach blockades set up by the protesting workers in order to make their flights. Three TUI fly Belgium airline flights bound for the Moroccan cities of Oujda and Rabat and the Spanish city of Palma de Mallorca were diverted to depart from Brussels Airport (EBBR/BRU) as a result of the strike.

France (Security threat level – 3): On 18 October 2022, trade unions in France are staging a one-day nationwide strike to call for higher wages amid increasing inflation rates. Regional rail services in the country are significantly disrupted, with only about 50% of scheduled trains expected to operate for the day. Accompanying demonstrations are anticipated to occur throughout the country; protesters in Paris were scheduled to begin a rally at approximately 1400 local time (1200 UTC). The countrywide strike comes amid recent work stoppages by employees at major oil refineries, causing fuel shortages across France.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Chile (Security threat level – 2): On 17 October 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Santiago issued a Demonstration Alert, which reads in part as follows: “There is the possibility of protests due to the anniversary of the “Estallido Social” (or social unrest) in Chile on Tuesday, October 18, in the Santiago Metropolitan Region and in some outlying communities of the Metropolitan Region.

“Prior protests in Santiago and around the country have been spontaneous and mobile with incidents of violence. Monitor local media for the most up-to-date information regarding active protests.”