On July 29, 2015, this Embassy warned U.S. citizens of an increase in the frequency and intensity of security incidents in El Salvador. Today’s discovery of an explosive device inside a car parked near the Ministry of Justice and Public Security is evidence of a further escalation in the level of violence. The Embassy is not aware of any threat specifically directed against U.S. citizens in El Salvador. However, the violence of recent months, coupled with this new information, demonstrates the continuing need for high security awareness. If you see a potential explosive device, leave the area immediately and report it to local authorities. Do not touch, move, or tamper with any suspicious package.
U.S. citizens can expect to encounter heightened security near police stations, government offices, and transportation hubs, and should exercise appropriate caution when in these areas. Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, and monitor local news stations for updates. You can review the U.S. Embassy Travel warning of June 22, 2015 here.
For further information:
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and El Salvador Country Specific Information.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Contact the U.S. Embassy in EL Salvador located at Final Boulevard Santa Elena Sur, Urbanización Santa Elena, Antiguo Cuscatlán, La Libertad, at +503 2501-2999, 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +503 2501-2999.
- Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
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