23431: (Chamberlain) US-Haiti (fwd)

[Bob Corbett <corbetre@webster.edu>]

From: Greg Chamberlain <GregChamberlain@compuserve.com>

   WASHINGTON, Oct 14 (AP) -- The State Department on Thursday authorized
the departure of non-essential personnel and family members from Haiti
because of the volatile security situation there.
   At least 48 people have died in recent days as a result of political
unrest.
   In a travel warning, the State Department reaffirmed an earlier
recommendation that U.S. citizens in Haiti consider departing until the
situation stabilizes.
   "Visitors and residents must remain vigilant due to the absence of an
effective police force in Haiti," the statement said.
   It also said there is potential for looting and that armed gangs have
been setting up roadblocks.