The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to Suva, the
capital of Fiji, due to the ongoing uncertainty and instability arising from
the worsening political crisis. The military declared martial law on Monday,
May 29, and imposed a curfew on the main island of Fiji. The Department of
State has authorized the departure of Embassy personnel in non-emergency
positions and the dependents of Embassy personnel. U.S. citizens who are
currently in the Suva area should consider relocating to areas outside of
Suva, or outside of Fiji altogether.
On May 19, armed gunmen seized control of Fiji's parliament and took the
Prime Minister and other parliamentarians hostage. This was followed by
significant unrest in Suva and its environs, including rioting, looting and
arson. On Sunday evening, May 28, a large mob brandishing guns and knives
moved through the city of Suva. Shots were heard around different parts of
the city and a police officer was fatally wounded. The situation remains
highly volatile and other similar disturbances could quickly break out
without notice.
In addition, international flights and passenger connections may be
disrupted by labor union action in Fiji and elsewhere. International flights
out of Nadi Airport have been slightly disrupted, but service has not been
discontinued. International service to and from Nausori Airport near Suva is
being diverted to Nadi or cancelled. Travelers are strongly advised to
contact airlines for specific details.
U.S. Citizens in Suva are urged to register with the U.S. Embassy if they
have not already done so. U.S. citizens who decide to remain in Suva should
exercise a high level of caution, avoid demonstrations or public meetings,
maintain adequate stocks of food and water, and monitor closely the local
radio for breaking developments.
The U.S. Embassy has temporarily curtailed public services during normal
operating hours. However, American citizens in Fiji with emergencies or
requiring updated security information may contact the Embassy at telephone
(679) 314-466.
For further general information on travel to Fiji, consult the Department's
latest Consular Information Sheet for Fiji, available on the Internet at
http://travel.state.gov.
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This replaces the Fiji Public Announcement of May 22, 2000 to provide
updated information on the situation in Suva.
Consular Information Sheets and Travel Warnings
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