TIRANA, Oct 30 /ATA/ – The U.S. Embassy in Tirana has urged American citizens to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place, warning that protests could escalate into violent riots and lead to road closures, traffic disruptions and interruptions to public services.
In a demonstration alert issued on Friday, the embassy said demonstrations were continuing in central Tirana and around government buildings, with some turning violent riots and involving incendiary devices, stone-throwing and property damage.
Further demonstrations could take place in Tirana and other Albanian cities in the coming days, it said.
Protests could spread to surrounding streets, prompting an increased police presence, traffic disruptions, diversions and road closures, the embassy warned. People near demonstration sites could also be exposed to tear gas, projectiles, incendiary devices and fireworks fired horizontally.
The embassy said it had advised its own personnel to avoid all areas where demonstrations take place.
Further closures or reductions in public services in Tirana were also possible, including disruptions to public transport and government offices, the embassy said.
The embassy urged American citizens to remain vigilant, monitor local media and follow instructions from local authorities and law enforcement.
It also advised them to stay away from demonstrations, remain aware of their surroundings, minimise distractions when moving around in public, have an emergency or exit plan and maintain a low profile.
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