US Embassy in Brazil asks Americans to avoid traveling to Rio Grande do Norte

Against the backdrop of violence and chaos in Rio Grande do Norte, the US Embassy in Brazil issued a security alert to US tourists and government officials.

The statement recommends that visitors review travel plans and that US government employees avoid landing in Rio Grande do Norte, which has faced daily criminal actions for a week, such as armed attacks and arson.

“US citizens who need to travel to Rio Grande do Norte should review travel plans and monitor local news sources for additional information,” the US Embassy alert reads.

“US government employees are advised to avoid travel to the state of Rio Grande do Norte until further notice.”

The US diplomatic office urges caution with demonstrations and strikes in urban areas, as they “can occur unexpectedly, disrupting transportation and escalate into violence.”

The embassy lists recommendations for tourists planning to visit Rio Grande do Norte.

• avoid demonstrations and crowds;
• keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible;
• review your security plans;
• monitor local media for updates.

Since Monday 13, armed criminals have been setting fire to public and private buildings and vehicles.

So far, security authorities have counted over 260 criminal actions coordinated by a faction that operates in the prisons of Rio Grande do Norte.

Over a hundred people have already been arrested.

The Minister of Justice, Flávio Dino, arrived in Natal on Sunday night.

He should meet with Governor Fátima Bezerra (PT) to address the state’s public safety crisis.

With information from Revista Oeste

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