Warden Message

Attempt to Detain President Gnassingbe's Family

Logo, Tome
April 13, 2009

The U.S. Embassy in Lomé is issuing this Warden Message to advise U.S. citizens of news reports indicating that military personnel attempted to detain a member of the President’s family, Kpatcha Gnassingbe, during the evening of Sunday, April 12.  According to subsequent reports, Kpatcha Gnassingbe was not harmed.  The situation remains calm in Lomé and there is no evidence indicating deterioration in the level of safety and security.

The Embassy advises American citizens to be watchful and report any unusual activity to the Embassy.  As usual, comply promptly with directions from the police and other Togolese security forces, and carry copies of your personal identity papers with you at all times.
American citizens are advised to stay current on local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.  American citizens are also urged to register with the U.S. Embassy.  They can do so at: https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/.

The Department of State continues to monitor security conditions overseas and, as always, will promptly disseminate information affecting the safety of American citizens abroad through its consular information program.  These documents are available on the Department’s website at: http://www.travel.state.gov/.

In case of emergency, or to report an attack or suspicious behavior, please contact the U.S. Embassy 24 hours a day at (228) 261-5470. Embassy hours for American Citizens Services are Monday through Thursday from 13:30 to 15:30. The Embassy is located at Boulevard Eyadema. B.P. 852, Lomé.  In case of an emergency, U.S. Citizens may come to the Embassy’s consular section during any hours of operation or call the Embassy at 228-261-5470. For routine visa, passport, notarial questions, etc., please e-mail ConsularLomé@state.gov  or visit http://togo.usembassy.gov/.