Washington, Sept 25: The United States warned that Maoist rebels in Nepal have stepped up their attacks since a seven-month ceasefire fell apart in August. The US State Department yesterday also warned Americans about Maoist anti-American rhetoric, harassment of US-affiliated humanitarian groups, and extortion from US and other foreign tourists on popular trekking routes. "Maoist rebel violence has increased since the end of the ceasefire on August 27," the department said.
"Rebel tactics include attacks on Nepalese government (GoN) facilities, indiscriminate bombings using improvised explosive devices, assassination attempts against GoN officials, and calls for localised or nationwide strikes," it said.
"The random, unpredictable nature of such actions creates risks of Americans being in the wrong place at the wrong time during a violent incident,” said the statement.
"In addition, anti-American rhetoric by the Maoist leadership, including against us-sponsored or supported aid organizations, has increased, raising security concerns for all Americans living in or visiting Nepal,” the statement said further. "While there is no current information suggesting plans to attack Americans or other foreigners, the current environment could motivate individual rebel elements to attack us citizens or businesses," it added
The department warned Americans in Nepal, and those considering travel to the Himalayan nation, to factor in the possibility of violence and urged them to keep a low profile. Bureau Report