The
British Foreign and Commonwealth Office advise against all
travel to the west African country of Togo. They say: following the
death of President Eyadema on 5 February 2005, the internal
situation in Togo is very uncertain. The capital city, Lome is calm
but tense in most areas. Demonstrations in the central south of the
city have led to clashes between the opposition and police, and
resulted in some fatalities. Further demonstrations are possible.
The situation could flare up without warning. Borders have now
reopened but restrictions at entry and exit points could be
re-imposed without warning. We advise against all travel to Togo
until the situation clarifies.

The sea front area in Lome, particularly around the Hotel Sarakawa
is dangerous and you should avoid this area as far as possible.
Walking is not advisable in this area. Pick-pocketing and theft are
common, especially along the beach and in the market areas of Lome.
Some taxis are poorly maintained, and you should take particular
care when seeking to use one. Attacks on pedestrians happen in
broad daylight as well as at night. You should enter and exit
public places such as restaurants in groups rather than
individually.

Be prepared for checks of passport/identity papers and possible
vehicle checks by the local Police and Military. There have been
reports of people being killed when attempting to resist
car-jackings. It is generally better not to resist armed attack.

If it is necessary to travel by car at night you should do so in a
convoy of at least two cars. You should stop at all control points
on request, turn on interior vehicle lights and only continue when
permission has been given to do so.