Australians are being urged to cancel planned trips to Venezuela following ongoing unrest in the country.
The latest advice from the Department Of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) highlights the threat of violent crime, kidnapping, political and economic instability and the risk of arbitrary detention.
“A state of emergency is in place. The security situation is unpredictable and may worsen,” according to the DFAT website.
The situation remains volatile following the U.S. capture of President Nicolás Maduro on January 3, with reports of infrastructure disruptions and explosions still occurring in the capital.
Australia doesn’t have an embassy or consulate in Venezuela but for those Aussies already in the country DFAT says they should leave as soon as possible or seek shelter until the situation stabilises.
“Make sure you have enough supplies, including food, water and medicine. Know where your identity documents are, including your passport.
“Some airlines have resumed flights but it may take time for flight operations to return to normal. Contact your airline or travel provider about your flight status and allow extra time to travel to the airport. Airspace could close again at short notice.
“Demonstrations and protest activity may occur. Protests can become violent. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. Avoid large public gatherings.”
The United States, the UK and Canada have joined Australia in issuing the highest-level travel warnings for Venezuela.
The U.S. State Department has reaffirmed a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory, citing the extreme risk of detention, kidnapping and civil unrest, while Britain and Canada have warned that consular assistance is virtually non-existent.
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/venezuela
