U.S. citizens warned to be cautious in Nepal

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -- The U.S. State Department is urging U.S. citizens in Nepal to be cautious over the next few weeks, since rebel Maoist groups traditionally have been more active there in early September.

"There is no specific threat against American citizens in Nepal, but American citizens should exercise caution in all travel during this period, particularly during evening hours," the State Department said Thursday in a public announcement.

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Maoist groups, which are campaigning to overthrow Nepal's decade-old constitutional monarchy, have announced that they will take "hard action" nationwide through September 8, the department said.

A local newspaper also reported that September 8 would be a "black day" commemorating the death of Suresh Wagle, who was killed by police last year, it said.

The department said it was uncertain what form any rebel actions would take, but urged U.S. citizens to be especially cautious during this period.

It recommended that Americans in Nepal monitor local news for information about civil unrest and Maoist activity, or check in with the U.S. embassy in Katmandu.

About 1,400 people have been killed in conflicts related to the Maoist insurgency, which began in several remote and poor districts of Nepal in early 1996.

The State Department issued a consular information sheet in December, saying that because of the potential for violence, U.S. government employees were forbidden to travel to those remote districts most affected by the rebel movement.

In the past, Maoist groups have threatened to take actions against non-governmental organizations they perceive to have a U.S. affiliation.

Copyright 2000 Reuters. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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U.S. Consular Information Sheet: Nepal
CDC Travelers' Health: Indian Subcontinent
Nepal Home Page

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