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Mike · Site Admin Joined: 07 Sep 2004 Posts: 4512 Location:

Attention American Citizens:

A small explosive device was detonated at approximately 11:30 PM on April 9th in front of the Major Cineplex near the intersection of Phahon Yothin Rd and Ratchada Phisek Rd in Bangkok. No one was hurt in the explosion, which caused minor property damage.

Thailand will celebrate the traditional Thai New Year (Songkran) from April 13 to 17, 2007. While the Embassy has no evidence of any specific threats during the Songkran celebrations, Thai officials have previously warned of the possibility of increased attacks during holidays and other special occasions. A series of explosions rocked Bangkok on New Year's Eve 2006, and two grenades were fired at the offices of a local newspaper along Vipayadee Rangsit Road in northern Bangkok and a nearby hotel car park on January 30, 2007.

An integral part of the Songkran holiday celebration involves throwing or squirting water, sometimes mixed with powder, on cars and pedestrians. This, combined with increased traffic, is likely to bring about a marked increase in traffic accidents throughout Thailand, especially those that involve motorcycles and pedestrians. Water-related Songkran festivities, increased holiday traffic, and large crowds of revelers are also often exploited by pickpockets and other scam artists. We urge all Americans to be extra cautious in public places and to pay particular attention to road safety during this holiday period.

Worldwide, the Department of State remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations and other violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests overseas, but does not have any specific information indicating an increase risk to Americans in Thailand. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security.

On April 9, 2007, the Department of State issued an updated Worldwide Public Announcement with regard to the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against Americans and interests overseas. The worldwide public announcement can be found at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1161.html

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). American citizens traveling or residing in Thailand are encouraged to register with the Department of State or the U.S. Embassy. The Embassy is located at 95 Wireless Road in Bangkok. The American Citizen Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy can be reached by calling 66-2-205-4049 and by e-mail at ACSBKK@State.gov. For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” found at http://travel.state.gov
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