This Warden Message is to alert U.S. citizens in Romania that on Wednesday, October 28, 2009, a U.S. citizen was reportedly driving from Bucharest to Baneasa via the Matei Basarab, the shortcut between Pipera-Tunari and Ioncu Nicolae.   At the turn to go south, a small blue sedan turned into the road and blocked the vehicle. The man driving the sedan then approached the blocked vehicle on foot and asked the driver if she spoke English. He told her he had been in an accident and wanted money from her. He held out a ring, as if he wanted to sell it. At this point another car approached the scene, and the man fled in his vehicle. 

 

On Thursday, October 29, it was reported that the same blue sedan was seen on the side of Matei Basarab. An individual was seen outside the car holding a ring. He was heard to say, “Do you speak English?”

 

U.S. citizens are advised to be cautious around this area. If your way is blocked, try to back out and change direction. Do not stop, give any individual money, or exit your vehicle. Contact the Romanian Police at 112 if assistance is required. When driving remember to keep your doors locked and windows up. For more information please see our webpage on Road Safety.

 

U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad.”

 

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs website where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Americans are also encouraged to read the Country Specific Information for Romania, available on the Embassy's website.

 

U.S. citizens with questions or concerns may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy: Str. Filipescu nr. 26, Bucharest; E-mail: AcsBucharest@state.gov ; Telephone: +(40 21) 200 3300.