UNCLAS MALABO 000013

SIPDIS

DEPT FOR DS COMMAND CENTER/ JERMAINE WALKER
AF DUTY, CHRIS LAMORA
CA/OCS, RYAN HALEY
CMS, DOUG KONEFF

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PTER PREL EK CASC PGOV PINR
SUBJECT: MALABO: ATTACK IN THE VICINITY OF PRESIDENTIAL PALACE

REF: TELCON: O. MOSS: CA/OCS RYAN HALEY; AF DUTY, CHRIS LAMORA;
CMS, DOUG KONEFF; DS COMMAND CENTER, J. WALKER


1. In the early morning hours of February 17, 2009, an apparent
attack was launched in the vicinity of the Presidential Palace
in Malabo, Equatorial Guineas. While reports remain sketchy, at
least two speedboats with armed attackers were apparently
engaged by EG military before dawn. Gunfire, to include
automatic weapons fire, could be heard for more than an hour
from various points downtown near the old port. In response,
the GREG has closed the ports of Malabo and Luba as well as
airports at Bata and Malabo.


2. GREG officials report the situation is now under contol, and
post can confirm that gunfire has subsided. Increased military
presence is in evidence around the city. A warden message will
be sent out as soon as possible requesting U.S. citizens limit
travel to essential activities and to remain vigilant. Post
will also distribute the language via local OSAC channels.

SMITH