Cablegate: Eac Convenes: Goma Mission Staff Evacuated

P 291643Z OCT 08
FM AMEMBASSY KINSHASA
TO SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 8693
INFO AMEMBASSY KIGALI

UNCLAS KINSHASA 000945

DEPT FOR DS/IP/AF, DS/IP/ITA, AF/EX

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: AMGT ASEC CG
SUBJECT: EAC CONVENES: GOMA MISSION STAFF EVACUATED

1. (SBU) Post convened an EAC meeting on October 29 to discuss the
deteriorating security situation in Eastern DRC. Ongoing violence
in the Eastern DRC indicates possible military and/or civil unrest
within the city limits of Goma. EAC recommended continued travel
ban to Eastern Congo and restricted movement to essential meetings
only, and will continue to monitor the situation.

2. (SBU) Mission Staff Evacuated to Rwanda.

At 1500 Kinshasa time, it was determined that the situation
surrounding Goma had deteriorated significantly. The Regional
Security Officer recommended evacuating USG staff from Goma. The
Executive Office concurred with the recommended evacuation and
notifications were sent out immediately.

3. (SBU) At 1707 Kinshasa time, all USG staff confirmed evacuation
complete to Gisenyi, Rwanda. Post continues to monitor the
situation and will report continuing developments.

4. (U) POC is RSO Christopher K. Gu at 243.81.884.4608 (cell) or
243.81.556.0151 ext. 2207 (IVG 934)
BROCK

© Scoop Media