'Be vigilant at all times': Britons warned about tourist hotspots in North Africa amid ‘increased threat’ to UK nationals
Growing tensions in Algeria could pose a threat to UK nationals
GETTY
Algeria is poised to become a popular travel destination in the coming weeks as the Saharan Marathon accommodates athletes from international communities.
Nestled between Morocco and Tunisia, Tunisia is the largest country in Africa, welcoming approximately two million tourists annually.
With the marathon set to take place at the end of the month, the UK Foreign Office has issued advice to travellers amid growing tensions and terror attacks in Algeria.
An increased risk of kidnapping in the town of Tindouf and Sahrawi camps could threaten the safety of UK nationals.
Travellers are expected to flock to the region for the famous Saharan race
PA
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is advising against all travel to areas within 30 km of the borders with Libya, Mauritania, Mali and Niger.
“Information on a US security alert warning of increased risk of kidnapping of Western nationals near camps in Tindouf region ahead of the Sahara Marathon 2024 planned for 28 February,” it warned on its website.
The Sarahan Marathon is an international sports event held in support of the refugee children of Western Sahara.
Regions 30km from the border with Tunisia in the provinces of Illizi and Ouargla and the Chaambi mountains area should also be avoided.
Additionally, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel within 30 km of the remainder of the border with Tunisia.
The authorities added that the kidnapping operations are “likely” to be attempted “by terrorists” in these zones, with a risk of “individual actors targeting foreigners”.
The travel warning comes amid ongoing demonstrations conducted by young Sahrawis against the Algerian authorities.
Citizens already in the region should stay alert in places frequented by Westerners and Tourists.
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The Saharan Marathon is set to take place at the end of the month
Tunisia travel
“There is a possibility of increased threat against Western interests, including against British nationals,” the website warns.
“You should remain vigilant and keep up to date with the latest developments including via the media and this travel advice.
“You should be vigilant at all times and take additional security precautions, especially in the southern, Libyan and Tunisian border areas, rural and mountainous areas in the north and the Sahara."
Spanish and US citizens have also been urged to remain vigilant when visiting Algeria.
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