This Public Announcement is being issued to alert U.S. citizens to the increased potential of kidnapping by terrorist groups in areas along the Venezuelan and Colombian border. This Public Announcement expires on June 21, 2002.

The Department of State has received credible information that Colombian terrorist groups are increasingly targeting U.S. citizens in Venezuela's Amazonas State for kidnapping, specifically near the border with Colombia. The Embassy recommends that United States citizens avoid travel to Amazonas State, and to any area within 50 miles along the Venezuelan border with Colombia until further notice.