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The US State Department advised travelers to the Copa America to be aware of "security concerns". The State Department advised Americans that they could be caught in violent street protests against Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez.
CONMEBOL, the South American soccer governing body, moved one of the semifinals from Caracas to Maracaibo.
"U.S. Citizens contemplating travel to Venezuela should carefully consider the riskes to their safety and security," the State Department said. "Violent crime, including...kidnappings...particularly in majro cities and along the border with Colombia. In Caracas, violent crime has become an every day occurence."
"The murder rate in Caracas is one of the highest in Latin America. Carjackings are frequent and often result in murder. Armed robberies occur in broad daylight throughout th city, including areas generally presumed safe and frequented by tourists. Americans planning to travel to Venezuela should be aware of uncertanties in availabilities of tickets for the games, an issue which has sparked local protests."
Chavez dismissed the advisory as another attack by what he called "the North American empire"
In a nationally televised military ceremony, Chavez promised there would be no terrorism or violence because "the Venezuela state, people, and armed forces are on guard (and will) neutralize any attempt to sabotage the tremendous success of the Copa America"
CONMEBOL, the South American soccer governing body, moved one of the semifinals from Caracas to Maracaibo.
"U.S. Citizens contemplating travel to Venezuela should carefully consider the riskes to their safety and security," the State Department said. "Violent crime, including...kidnappings...particularly in majro cities and along the border with Colombia. In Caracas, violent crime has become an every day occurence."
"The murder rate in Caracas is one of the highest in Latin America. Carjackings are frequent and often result in murder. Armed robberies occur in broad daylight throughout th city, including areas generally presumed safe and frequented by tourists. Americans planning to travel to Venezuela should be aware of uncertanties in availabilities of tickets for the games, an issue which has sparked local protests."
Chavez dismissed the advisory as another attack by what he called "the North American empire"
In a nationally televised military ceremony, Chavez promised there would be no terrorism or violence because "the Venezuela state, people, and armed forces are on guard (and will) neutralize any attempt to sabotage the tremendous success of the Copa America"
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