Warden Messages

Security Notice

November 9, 2006

The U.S. Embassy in Mozambique is issuing this warden message to notify Americans that the Embassy has received information that Mozambican police officers (PRM) are removing street vendors on Avenida 25 de Setembro near Avenida Guerra Popular, approximately one kilometer west of the JAT building, for security reasons.  The vendors are being redirected to the market area but they are resisting the move because they would have to pay a daily tax at the market to sell their merchandise.  Although the situation is calm, members of the quick reaction force are present in the area if problems should occur.  American citizens are advised to avoid this area if possible.

Additionally, The Embassy has received information concerning a carjacking that occurred on November 7, 2006 behind the Coconuts nightclub.  At approximately 2245, a driver attempting to park her vehicle at her residence was confronted by four armed assailants who forcibly entered the vehicle, took the driver hostage, and drove the vehicle away.  Shortly after abducting the driver, the thieves released her.  Fortunately, the driver was unharmed, but she lost her vehicle. 
Americans are reminded to remain vigilant while driving anywhere in Mozambique.  Ensure that vehicle windows are rolled up and doors are locked.  If you are out at night remember that the risk of being carjacked increases significantly.  Also, people are at increased risk for being carjacked anytime they remain inside a parked vehicle on the street or when parking their vehicles at their residences.  As a reminder, a summary of the common carjacking techniques previously distributed is included here:

1. Simple Commandeering – this technique was used in the scenario noted above.  The attackers approach the vehicle while it is stopped, force the driver and any passengers out, and take the vehicle. 
2. The Bump – the attackers bump the victim’s vehicle from behind.  When the victim exits the vehicle to assess the damage and exchange information, the vehicle is taken.
3. Good Samaritan – the attackers stage what appears to be an accident.  They may simulate an injury.  The victim stops to assist and the vehicle is taken.
4. The Ruse – the vehicle behind the victim flashes its lights or the driver waves to get the victim’s attention.  The attackers indicate that there is a problem with the victim’s car to get the victim to pull over.  Once the victim pulls over, the vehicle is taken.
5. The Trap – the attackers use surveillance to follow the victim home.  When the victim waits for the gate to be opened, the attacker then block the victim’s escape and force the driver out of the vehicle.
6. The Roadblock – in this scenario, the attackers select an attack site on a roadway that can be easily blocked with items such as trees or stones.  Once a vehicle is forced to stop because of the obstruction, it is commandeered.  This technique is usually used in isolated locations.
7. The Moving Roadblock – the attackers use their vehicles to get in front and behind a target vehicle.  Once this occurs, the attackers in the front vehicle brake suddenly forcing the target vehicle to stop.  The vehicle is then commandeered.  Like the roadblock, this technique is normally used in remote or desolate areas.

In most cases, it is better not to resist a carjacking unless your life or the lives of other individuals are in imminent danger.  Please remember that the vehicle and any possessions inside are not worth your life, the lives of family members, or the lives of friends. 

For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov, where current Worldwide Caution, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found.  Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1 888 407 4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. 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. EST, Monday to Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
 
The U.S. Embassy in Mozambique is located at 193 Avenida Kenneth Kaunda, Maputo
Telephone (258) 21 49 2797
Fax (258) 21 49 0448
Web site:  http://Mozambique.USEmbassy.gov
E-mail: ConsularMaputo@state.gov

The consular section is open Monday to Thursday 7:30 am to 4:00 pm (closed 12:00 to 1:00 pm) Friday 7:30 am - 11:00 am.  (Hours adjusted during the period Nov 20 to Dec 8).

Visa interviews are normally conducted on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, so Americans seeking non-emergency services are requested to visit the consular section at other times.