warden message: Prison Riots

U.S. Embassy Libreville
January 19, 2009

This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens that an incident is in-progress at the Libreville Central Jail located in the Gros Bouquet/Louis area of town.  Gabonese military and police have surrounded the jail as jail guards have been taken hostage.  Roads near the jail have been closed for security reasons.  Due to the ongoing nature of this incident, the Embassy advises all Americans resident or traveling through Libreville to avoid the Gros Bouquet/Louis area of town near the jail until Americans have confirmation that the situation has been resolved.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found.  Up-to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).  Americans are also encouraged to read the Country Specific Information for Gabon, available at http://travel.state.gov.
U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration web site at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security.  Americans without internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.  For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad" found at http://travel.state.gov.
U.S. citizens may contact the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Libreville for further information.  The Embassy is located is located in Centre Ville on the Boulevard du Bord de Mer, and may be reached at 76.20.03/04 during business hours.  The duty officer may be reached after hours at 07.38.01.71