Total Gas Station Protest

The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens in Gabon of an ongoing protest at the Total gas station just southeast of Leon M’ba International Airport.  Protesters have seized control of the gas station and are also blocking the road in that area.

The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid this area and to exercise caution within the vicinity of any political rallies or demonstrations.  We remind U.S. citizens that even events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.  Police in Libreville occasionally use tear gas to disperse protestors and prevent them from blocking traffic.

Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates.  Maintain a high level of vigilance, take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security, and follow local authorities’ instructions.

For further information:

  • See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information for Gabon.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. .
  • Contact the U.S. Embassy in Libreville in Sabliere across from Hotel Onomo.  It can be reached at +241 01-45-71-00 during business hours. For after-hours emergencies, U.S. citizens should call +241 07-38-01-71 and ask to speak with the duty officer.
  • Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
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