Apprehending Mumbai-type terror attacks in various parts of India, the United States on Wednesday alerted its citizens to be cautious during their visit to that country and asked them to defer their travel to Andhra Pradesh, where violence continues over the Telangana issue.
This is the third travel alert issued by the U.S. in quick succession.
“The U.S. government continues to receive information that terror groups may be planning attacks in India. Terrorists and their sympathisers have demonstrated their willingness and capability to attack targets, where Americans or westerners are known to congregate or visit,” the alert said.
“In addition, there continues to be a possibility of violence in the south-central Indian state of Andhra Pradesh over the contentious issue of creating a separate State,” the State Department said.
The alert replaces alerts, dated October 29 and December 9, 2009, and expires on January 31, 2010, it said.
Recent media reports from intelligence agencies indicated that suicide bombers had entered India with the objective of creating Mumbai-type mayhem.
“The November 2008 attacks in Mumbai provided a vivid reminder that hotels and other public places are especially attractive targets for terrorist groups. The U.S. citizens are urged always to practice good security, maintain a heightened situational awareness and a low profile,” it said.
