aus gov warning re planned attacks

From Aus Gov smartraveller website-

Note comments on planned attacks against foreign companies and oilfields in Puntland.

"Somalia overall This Advice is current for Wednesday, 23 July 2008.

This advice has been reviewed and reissued. It contains new information in the Summary (update) and under Safety and Security: Terrorism (attack planning against foreign oil companies and oil fields in the Puntland region). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Summary

* We strongly advise you not to travel to Somalia because of widespread armed conflict, very high threat of terrorist attack against western interests and dangerous levels of violent crime.

* Due to the extremely dangerous security situation and breakdown in law and order, you should consider leaving Somalia if it is safe to do so.

* There is a very high threat of terrorist attack in Somalia. Westerners have been targeted and killed in terrorist attacks throughout Somalia, including Mogadishu. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped. In early May 2008, terrorists threatened attacks against foreign individuals, government interests and security personnel.

* Recent reports indicate militants are planning attacks against foreign oil companies and oil fields in the Puntland region of Somalia in the coming weeks.

* Somali government forces and Ethiopian troops have been involved in frequent violent clashes with militant insurgents since December 2006. These clashes appear to be escalating. Firearm, grenade and landmine attacks on security forces are common. Civilians have been killed and injured.

* Violent clashes occur in the capital Mogadishu and areas frequented by civilians are increasingly coming under attack. The launch of the National Reconciliation Congress was targeted in July 2007 and the city's biggest market was attacked in December 2007. The unrest is expected to continue.

* Due to access limitations and the dangerous security situation, the Australian Government's ability to provide consular services is extremely limited. Australia does not have an Embassy or Consulate in Somalia. The Australian High Commission in Kenya provides consular assistance to Australians in Somalia.

* There are high levels of piracy in waters off the Somali coast. Pirates may be heavily armed and have held crew members for ransom.

* Given the extremely dangerous security situation and very high threat of terrorist attack, we strongly recommend that you register your travel and contact details with us, so we can contact you in an emergency. "