Location: Gbessia Airport traffic circle and vicinity
Event: On Thursday, October 15, 2020 at 14h15 we received information that a demonstration at the above location has become violent. U.S. government personnel have been instructed avoid the above area.
Traffic in Conakry is expected to be extremely heavy through the rest of today.
The Guinean presidential elections are scheduled for Sunday, October 18. There is always a possibility protest activity may occur in Conakry and throughout Guinea at any given time. The frequency and intensity of protest activity increases as an election date approaches, and during the week after the election.
On election day, all roads will be closed to non-emergency traffic. Vehicles without special election worker permits will not be allowed on the roads.
The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory for Guinea, advising U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Guinea due to COVID-19, and to exercise increased caution in Guinea due to civil unrest.
As always, there is the possibility that sporadic pop up protest activity may occur in Conakry at any time. Typical locations for protest activity often include, but are not limited to, Rue le Prince from the Cosa intersection, to the Bambeto traffic circle, to the Hamdallaye traffic circle. When violence occurs during these protests, it often takes the form of blocked traffic, burned tires in the streets, and rocks and debris thrown at passing vehicles. Traffic in and around areas of the protest will come to a halt.
Actions to take:
- Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
- Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
- Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
- Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Crime and Safety Report for Guinea.
U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Conakry, Guinea
Phone number: +224-655-10-40-00
Email address: ConakryACS@state.gov
https://gn.usembassy.gov/
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444