The United States (US) Embassy in Tanzania has issued a fresh security alert to American citizens living in Tanzania following widespread demonstrations in the country.
In a statement on Thursday, October 30, the US Embassy advised American Citizens to shelter in place.
The embassy cautioned US citizens against traveling by road, noting that the ongoing protests in Tanzania have led to incidents of violence and the erection of roadblocks.
“The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens to shelter in place. There are reports of country-wide demonstrations resulting in outbreaks of violence and roadblocks. Travel by road poses a significant risk,” read part of the advisory.
The US Embassy also pointed out that internet access has become intermittent, severely affecting communication and access to information.
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“Many international flights have been canceled; confirm your flight via telephone prior to traveling to the airport,” the embassy stated.
Further, the embassy advised U.S. citizens to avoid demonstrations and crowds, maintain a low profile, monitor local media for updates, and be aware of their surroundings.
The Americans were also asked to check in with friends and family to let them know they are safe.
This comes after the United Kingdom (UK) government also issued a safety advisory to its citizens in Tanzania.
In a statement on Thursday, the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warned British nationals about the deteriorating security situation in the East African nation.
"Large-scale disruption to travel, significant issues with internet connectivity & some protests turning violent," the UK in Tanzania noted in its advisory.
British nationals were advised to shelter in place, adhere to the curfew imposed by the Tanzanian authorities, follow the advice of local officials, and avoid all demonstrations, rallies, and large crowds.
Protests erupted in Tanzania on Wednesday, October 29, as the country headed into the ballot to elect a new president and members of parliament.
In Dar es Salaam, demonstrators clashed with police, who responded with tear gas, live ammunition, and water cannons.
The demos were also witnessed in Arusha, Mwanza, and Mbeya. In Zanzibar's Stone Town, protesters were seen dismantling billboards of the ruling party and chanting anti-government slogans.
Some polling centers were set ablaze in several areas, while at least one police vehicle was torched.
The unrest erupted amid accusations of electoral manipulation, suppression of opposition voices, and a lack of fair competition.
Following the protests, Tanzanian police have imposed a nationwide curfew effective from 6 p.m. local time.
