UN is arranging evacuation flights out of Central African Republic

3 October 2015 - RPS Partnership

The British FCO is now advising all British nationals to leave the Central African Republic. The UN is arranging evacuation flights from Bangui, in the Central African Republic.

Tensions are high in Bangui and across the country. There are armed patrols that have set up several roadblocks across the country. Reports of violence, reprisal killings, looting and human rights abuses continue across the country.

Since January 2015, there have been a number of kidnappings of government ministers and humanitarian and UN workers.

In September 2015 there was a further increase in inter-ethnic violence, particularly in Bangui and Bambari. On 25 September 2015 a taxi driver was killed in Bangui, which has led to an escalation in inter-ethnic violence. On 26 September 2015, 45 people were confirmed dead as a result of sectarian violence.

Hundreds have been injured in the violence and thousands displaced. Rumours of increased hostility towards the international community have also been reported. A community radio station has been attacked. A gendarmerie camp has been attacked and a police station burnt down. The compounds of non-governmental organisations have been looted. The airport is currently closed.

British nationals wishing to leave should contact the British High Commission in Yaoundé on: 

+237 222 22 0796/+237 222 22 3347 for more information. 

Alternatively, contact the British Honorary Consul on: 

+ 236 75 561 456 /+236 72 692 460 /+236 72 695 784 /+ 236 75 563 536.

The FCO is advising British nationals to leave now if practical means are available, if it is safe to do so, and if a safe destination is available. RPS suggests that anyone staying should take all security precautions and maintain sufficient stocks of food and water. 

Those travellers who remain or visit should be aware that the FCO is not able to provide consular services nor organise or assist any evacuation from the country. If the situation deteriorates further, leaving the country by commercial means may become increasingly difficult. Flights out of Bangui are now limited. 

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