US cautions its citizens over threats of attacks in India

Apprehending Mumbai-type terror attacks in various parts of India, the US today alerted its citizens to be cautious during their visit to that country, and asked them to defer their travel to Andhra Pradesh where violence continues over the Telangana issue.

This is the third travel alert issued by the United States in quick succession.

"The US government continues to receive information that terrorist groups may be planning attacks in India. Terrorists and their sympathisers have demonstrated their willingness and capability to attack targets where Americans or Westerners are known to congregate or visit," the travel alert said.

"In addition, there continues to be a possibility of violence in the south-central Indian state of Andhra Pradesh over the contentious issue of creating a separate state," the state department said.

The alert replaces travel alerts dated October 29 and December 9, 2009, and expires on January 31, 2010, it said.

Recent media reports coming from intelligence agencies indicated that suicide bombers have entered India with the objective of creating 26/11-type mayhem.

"The November 2008 attacks in Mumbai provided a vivid reminder that hotels and other public places are especially attractive targets for terrorist groups. US citizens are urged always to practise good security, maintain a heightened situational awareness and a low profile," the travel alert said.