US embassy in S.Africa issues terror attack warning

JOHANNESBURG - The US embassy in South Africa said on Tuesday that it has received information that extremists may be targeting US interests in the country.

The interests to be targeted possibly include US government facilities and other facilities identifiable with US business interests, the embassy said in a statement.

"There is no additional information as to timing or potential targeting," the statement said.

"Review your personal security plans; remain aware and vigilant of your surroundings, including local events, monitor local news stations for updates and follow instructions from local authorities," the embassy advised.

"Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security," it added.

Fears for terror attacks on Western targets in South Africa have been existed for some time. There have been reports that "White Widow" Samantha Lewthwaite was seen spying on Western embassies in South Africa before she allegedly masterminded the West Gate shopping mall attack in Nairobi, Kenya.

The 31-year-old Briton is known to have been in South Africa between 2008 and 2011, travelling under the assumed name Natalie Faye Webb on a fraudulently obtained South African passport.

In January and February 2013, she was allegedly caught on CCTV cameras watching embassies in the Arcadia area of Pretoria, including the British High Commission.

Arcadia is home to the Union Buildings and South African president's official residence, in addition to US embassy and many other foreign embassies.