Senegal: High terrorist threat prompts travel advisory

Event

The US Embassy in Senegal issued a travel advisory on Thursday, October 19, due to the high risk of terrorism in the capital Dakar. The advisory warns individuals traveling to the capital to be particularly vigilant when staying at hotels frequented by Westerners, specifying that embassy personnel are no longer permitted to stay at seaside hotels in Dakar until the first week of December. Increased security measures are also possible in the capital. 

Context

Senegal has long feared becoming a target for terrorist groups, particularly Al-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), following numerous attacks targeting other countries in the region over the past year. Dakar in particular is a potential target as it hosts many Western businesses, UN agencies, and international NGOs. Furthermore, Senegal has longstanding ties to France (which has been targeted by various terrorist groups due to its military operations in the region) and currently has security personnel stationed in northern Mali as part of a UN peacekeeping mission.

Advice

Despite Senegal's status as a relatively safe country, the presence of terrorist groups in the sub-Saharan region and Senegal's participation in military operations against these groups have increased the terrorist risk in the country. All those present in Dakar are advised to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious objects or behavior. Individuals are advised to follow all instructions issued by the authorities and carry proper visas or other identifying documentation at all times in case of a security check.

On a related note, before traveling to Senegal, individuals are advised to watch this video released by the British police services in case of attacks.