Soldiers also raided the offices of Mauritania's state radio and television station, seizing control and cutting off all state media broadcasts. Troops equipped with heavy weaponry and anti-aircraft guns are reportedly patrolling the streets of the city. Although witnesses have reported hearing gunfire, there are no reports of major violence in the streets. Currently, Nouakchott Airport (GQNN/NKC) and government offices are closed. This is an emerging situation.
The U.S. Embassy in Nouakchott issued a Warden Message on 3 August 2005 stating the current security situation in Mauritania. Among other information, the embassy "reduced its staff to emergency personnel and has instructed all other personnel to remain at home. The Embassy advises all American citizens to take immediate precautions to assure their safety, including remaining at home."
By SITE Institute
August 2, 2005
A discussion amongst members of a password-protected al-Qaeda affiliated message board yesterday, August 1, 2005, concerned the presence of American forces in Algeria and North Africa, and their alleged “maneuvers” with those troops from eight Islamic countries, including Algeria, Mauritania, Morocco, Mali, and others.
The focus was placed on this “mixed army” vis-à-vis the Muslims, mujahideen, and members of the Salafist Group for Call and Combat (GSPC), as well as the “disbelievers” from the East.
One author believes that the mujahideen in North Africa are to be the primary targets of the joint forces of the American and Islamic countries, a view that other members concur, alleging that they wish to “put out Allah’s light by their mouths.” Another member questions aloud what is to be “towards the infidel forces” in North Africa, to which another states: “The expected hit is coming soon, Allah willing.”