USAN SUURLÄHETYSTÖ VAROITTAA

Warden Messages Security Advisory (November 20, 2008) The American Embassy is concerned about the number of reported instances of crimes perpetrated against foreign clientele at local bars, clubs and lounges in Riga. There have been a number of additional reports recently of foreign tourists being charged extortionate prices for drinks in bars. Some have then been assaulted, threatened or forced to withdraw money from an ATM to pay for the bill. Local police have been unwilling and/or unable to provide assistance and victims have reported that they believe police have been involved in some of these schemes. On 19 November 2008, the Regional Security Officer at the American Embassy placed the following establishments off-limits for American staff, their family members and TDY official visitors: “Foxy Lounge” - Terbatas 2; located below the “Fashion Café” in the basement of the “Vegas” casino at the corner of Terbatas and Merkela streets near the flower market. “Roxy Klub” - Kalku 24; located near the entrance to Old Town on Kalku street. “Lord’s Pub” (formerly “Groks Pub”)—Kalku 22; located next door to Roxy Klub. “Puzzle” (formerly “Pink Panther”)—Kalku 22; also located next door to Groks Pub. “Mary” - Audeju 13; located on the east side of Galleria “Centrs” Mall. “DD Bars” “Saxon” - Laipu 7; located near “Livu Square” in a small street to the right of restaurant “Steiku Haoss”. “Doll House” a.k.a “Zig Zag” – Marstalu 12; located to the right of Reformed Church. “Bar Fly” - Vagnera 8; located near “Livu Square” in a small street to the right of “Roxy”, “Groks” and “Pink Panther”. “Zephry Bar” - located near Galleria Center in Old Town, near the youth hostel. “Mademoiselle Cigar Club” – Valnu street; located in Old Town across from “Lounge 8”. "Sakura" (formerly “Nobu Sushi”) - Grecinieku 28; located in Old Town. These establishments have become notorious for credit card fraud extortion scams, prostitution rings and violence by organized criminals. Embassy staff and their family members are officially prohibited from patronizing these locals. These prohibitions were put into place to ensure the safety of American Embassy employees and their family members. As noted in the Country Specific Information, these scams can occur at other facilities as well. All American citizens are reminded to be vigilant to avoid becoming a victim of this type of crime. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy or Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed. In the event of an emergency, The U.S. Embassy in Riga can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 371 6703-6200. The Embassy’s web site, which includes consular information and the most recent messages to the American community in Latvia, is at http://riga.usembassy.gov For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration web site at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State’s A Safe Trip Abroad.