Colleagues:

This is to warn any of you who may have to travel to Somalia and especially the Puntland region to be extremely careful and security conscious . In view of the ongoing kidnapping of French journalist Gwen Le Gouil and an attempted kidnapping today (20 December) of a foreign journalist in the same region, as well as the recent kidnapping of aidworkers in May 2007 (in the same area) provide cause for increased concern.

Establish contacts with the administrations who control the area (including clan authorities) , UN agencies or international organizations and journalist organizations on the ground, they will advice on security issues.

Identify yourself, if there is no reason to hide

Assume nothing and be careful about whom you trust

Always inform those you trust of your whereabouts when on assignments in dangerous territory.

Especially identify local contacts who can come to your assistence immediately and establish a protocol of contact

Avoid travelling by yourself - even if you have local protection

Useful contacts:

NUSOJ Contacts
Telfax: + 252 1 859944
Tel: +252 1 227942
Cell: + 252 1 5507763

INSI Somalia Contacts
Tel: + 252 1 859944
Tel: +252 1 227942
Mobile: +252 62 273423