Entebbe International Airport Terror Threat: US Cautions Travelers Over Possible Terrorist Attack On Uganda Airport

Following reports of a specific terrorist threat to Entebbe International Airport in Uganda, the U.S. Embassy in Kampala is urging travelers to review their travel plans in light of information that suggests terrorists may attack the airport between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. local time Thursday (which is 7 hours later than EST).

“The U.S. Embassy has received information from the Uganda Police Force that according to intelligence sources there is a specific threat to attack Entebbe International Airport by an unknown terrorist group today, July 3rd, between the hours of 2100-2300,” the embassy said in an emergency message posted on its website Thursday. “Individuals planning travel through the airport this evening may want to review their plans in light of this information.”

Along with the specific threat, the embassy reminded U.S. citizens about “the continued threat of a potential terrorist attack" in Uganda.

“The targets for these attacks could include hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, shopping malls, diplomatic missions, transportation hubs, religious institutions, government offices or public transportation,” the embassy said.

The embassy cautioned travels to “[r]eview your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.”

Uganda Civil Aviation Authority spokesman Ignie Igundura told the Associated Press that there were no plans to temporarily shutter the airport due to the threat, although he said Entebbe International Airport was tightening security.

The embassy also urged U.S. citizens traveling or living in Uganda to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, at www.TravelState.gov. Enrollees receive security updates and the program makes it easier for the embassy or consulate to get in touch with a citizen in an emergency.

The warning about Entebbe International Airport came a day after the Obama administration called on European authorities to beef up security at airports amid concerns that bombmakers with al Qaeda affiliates in Yemen and Syria were joining forces and attempting to get militants to board planes with non-conventional bombs.