The government of the United States has issued a warning to its citizens living in the Republic of South Africa to beware of extremists who may want to perpetrate attacks against American citizens and interests in that country.
According to a statement on the website of the US Mission to South Africa today, “The U.S. Diplomatic Mission to South Africa has received information that extremists may be targeting U.S. interests in South Africa, to possibly include U.S. Government facilities and other facilities identifiable with U.S. business interests. There is no additional information as to timing or potential targeting.
“Review your personal security plans; remain aware and vigilant of your surroundings, including local events, monitor local news stations for updates and follow instructions from local authorities. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.”
This is coming as a surprise to many observers who saw the warning as troubling since South Africa is not a country with terrorist records.