U.S. EMBASSY  WARDEN MESSAGE

February 22, 2008
U.S. Embassy Jakarta
U.S. Consulate General Surabaya
U.S. Consulate Medan

This Warden Message is being issued to inform U.S. citizens that according to local media reports a demonstration organized by Islamic group Hizbut Tahrir Indonesia is scheduled to take place at 0900 Saturday local time at Jl. Raya Dr. Sutomo 33 – the American Consulate General in Surabaya - in response to the possible re-release of the Danish Muslim cartoons. 

We wish to remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations.  Since the timing and routes of scheduled marches and demonstrations are always subject to change, U.S. citizens should monitor local media sources for new developments.  U.S. Citizens are urged to avoid large crowds, maintain a low profile and review their personal protective measures.

Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy’s website at http://jakarta.usembassy.gov/  and the U.S. Department of State's travel website at www.travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found.  The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review to "A Safe Trip Abroad," found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html , which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad.  In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.

Citizens living and residing in Indonesia are advised to register their presence through the U.S. Department of State's automated online registration system at https://travelregistration.state.gov.   U.S. citizens may also contact the Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy via e-mail or by calling 62-21-3435-9050.  This complete message is available on the Embassy’s website at http://jakarta.usembassy.gov/.