US warns extremists ‘may attack, kidnap or blow up’ Americans in Istanbul

The US consul-general in Turkey has called on US citizens in Istanbul to steer clear of crowded public places and locations popular with tourists due to an imminent threat of attacks on US and other foreign nationals by extremist groups.

The security memo was published on the official consulate page on Saturday. While elaborating on the nature of the possible attacks that Americans can fall prey to, it listed “armed attack, attempted kidnapping, bombing, or other violent acts,” adding that they could be “pre-planned” and come “with little or no warning.”

For the sake of their safety, the consulate urged US citizens to reconsider their traveling plans, especially, if they are going to visit “locations where the westerners are known to frequent or reside.” Of particular concern are the major cities located in southeastern Turkey, in the border region with Syria. 

Americans have been also cautioned to shun political gatherings and rallies as well as to avoid visiting places that attract large crowds and staying vigilant while visiting tourist spots, RT reports.