Maldives Warden Message - July 16, 2010

A number of political protests and demonstrations have occurred in Malé, predominately outside the Majlis (Parliament), other government buildings and political figures’ residences.   Some of these demonstrations have become violent.  American citizens in the Republic of Maldives should exercise caution and avoid government buildings, including the Majlis (Parliament) and any large political gatherings or demonstrations.  The demonstrations have not targeted foreigners, and there have not been any demonstrations in the resort islands or outside of Male.  

The U.S. Embassy in Colombo provides consular services to Americans in the Maldives, but assistance may be delayed since the U.S. Embassy has no direct presence in the Maldives.  Contact information for the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is located at the end of this message.

U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State's latest Country Specific Information for Maldives (http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_961.html) and the Worldwide Caution . U.S. citizens living or traveling in Sri Lanka are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website.

For additional information, refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad“. 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 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo is located at 210 Galle Road. The telephone number is +94 11 249-8500. The number for after-hours emergencies is +94 11 249-8888. The fax number is +94 11 249-8501. The Consulate's e-mail address is colomboacs@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://srilanka.usembassy.gov .