A bomb blast struck an anti-government protest march in the Thai capital on Friday, wounding at least 28 people and sending tensions soaring following weeks of mass opposition rallies. Additional crimes involving weapons and explosives related to the ongoing political situation have occurred at protests sites in recent days. Protest marches continue throughout the city and mass rallies at major intersections. They include: Asoke, Pathumwan, Lumpini, Victory Monument, Ratchaprason, Lat Prao, Silom, and Changwattana. Even demonstrations that are meant to be peaceful can turn confrontational, and can escalate into violence without warning. You should exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings. Be alert and aware of your surroundings and pay attention to local news and media reports for additional information and details.

Security is being tightened at airports across India following fears of an aircraft hijack to demand the release of Indian Mujahideen founder Yasin Bhatkal and a tip-off that an explosive device may be detonated in New Delhi. The note warned about a threat from a hired/hijacked helicopter, remote-controlled microlight aircraft, aero-model para-glider or IEDs hidden in perfume bottles. Measures to be taken include strengthening of anti-terrorist measures, checking of vehicles entering the car parking area to preclude the possibility of car bomb attacks discontinuation of airport “visitor” tickets, increased random body searches and physical luggage screening at points throughout airports, and strict access control to aircraft on the ground. Passengers should plan to arrive at the airport extra early.

Americans planning to attend the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, should be vigilant about their security due to potential terrorist threats, crime and uncertain medical care, the State Department advised Friday. In a travel alert, the department said it was not aware of specific threats to U.S. interests related to the Games that begin next month. Americans should be aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions to stay safe, notably on public transport. In addition to the potential for terrorism, the State Department said Americans should consider buying private medical evacuation insurance if they attend the Olympics as medical facilities are “untested” in Sochi, which has never before hosted such a large event. It also warned Americans to be wary of common criminal activity, which tends to rise at most large gatherings around the world.

US citizens advised of the risk of traveling in Mexico due to threats to safety and security posed by Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) in the country. U.S. citizens have been the target of violent crimes, such as kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery by TCOs in various Mexican states. This warning excludes most of the popular tourist areas.

China’s capital has been shrouded in dangerous smog, cutting visibility down to a few hundred metres. A count of small particulate pollution reached more than 25 times recommended levels. A grey haze filled the sky, leaving an industrial, burning smell hanging in the air. China’s cities are often hit by heavy pollution, blamed on coal-burning by power stations and industry, as well as vehicle use.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWS

BUSINESS TRAVEL

LEISURE TRAVEL