The U.S. Consulate in Adana, Turkey, warned Americans on Monday that it had received specific and credible threats of potential terrorist activity targeting U.S.-branded hotels in Adana.
In a security message released on September 26, U.S. Consulate General Adana informs U.S. citizens that it has obtained specific and credible threats of potential terrorist activity targeting U.S.-branded hotels in Adana. U.S. citizens in Adana are advised to exercise caution when patronizing these establishments.
The warning did not name the hotels. Adana's hotels include properties operating under the Sheraton and Hilton brands.
“The U.S. Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens of increased threats from terrorist groups throughout Turkey. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to southeastern Turkey and carefully consider the risks of travel to and throughout the country. The Department continues to monitor the effects of the ongoing state of emergency and recent terrorist incidents in Ankara, Istanbul, Gaziantep, and throughout southeastern Turkey,” the Consulate said in a statement on its website.
According to the statement, foreign and U.S. tourists have been explicitly targeted by international and indigenous terrorist organizations in Turkey.
“As stated in the Worldwide Caution dated September 9, 2016, extremists throughout Europe, to include Turkey, have targeted large sporting events, restaurants, cafes, theatres, open markets, aviation services, transportation systems, and public venues where people congregate as well as religious sites and high-profile events. Most recently, they have threatened to kidnap and assassinate Westerners and U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens are reminded to review personal security plans, monitor local news for breaking events, and remain vigilant at all times.”
Adana, in southeastern Turkey, is about 16 kilometers from Incirlik Air Base, which the U.S. military uses to launch attacks against Islamic State militants in Syria.
Recall that 41 people are believed to have been killed, with a further 240 wounded in a double suicide bombing at Istanbul's Ataturk airport on the evening of June 28. Two distinctive explosions were heard at the capital's main international airport, followed by heavy gunfire.
