The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses Turkey at Level 3, indicating travelers should reconsider travel to the country due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Do not travel to areas along the Turkey-Syria border, and to the southeastern provinces of Hatay, Kilis, Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Sirnak, Diyarbakır, Van, Siirt, Muş, Mardin, Batman, Bingöl, Tunceli, Hakkâri, and Bitlis due to terrorism.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

The U.S. Consulate in Adana does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms appearing in this report. The American Citizens’ Services unit (ACS) cannot recommend a particular individual or location, and assumes no responsibility for the quality of service provided.

Review OSAC’s Turkey-specific page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password.

Crime Threats

There is minimal risk from crime in Adana. Mugging, vandalism, and other petty crimes do occur, as does narcotics-related crime. Crimes of opportunity (e.g. pickpocketing, purse snatching) may occur more frequently; however, random violent crime is rare. Raw Turkish National Police crime statistics the for Adana province for 2018 include 5,668 thefts, 280 cases of extortion & robbery, 57 homicides, 1,318 vehicle break-ins, and 67 vehicle thefts.

There have also been reports about the use of sedatives throughout Turkey in sexual assaults by employees (masseurs) in private spas and hotels.

Cybersecurity Issues

There are occasional reports of financial internet scams victimizing U.S. citizens who transfer sums of money to a supposed friend in Turkey. These scams include fraudulent awarding of diversity (lottery) visas, fronts for internet dating/romances, and scams about purchasing pets. There has been an increase in cases of foreigners establishing contact with U.S. citizens online and over several months building a romantic interest. After purporting to run into an accident, arrest, travel emergency, intention to visit, or other situation, they request funds. Be careful about suspicious requests for deposits and various types of registration fees. The State Department’s International Scams webpage has a section detailing some of the more common scams.

Other Areas of Concern

The U.S. Consulate restricts government employees from the following neighborhoods in Adana: Şakirpaşa, Gulbahcesi, Dağlıoğlu, Barbaros, Anadolu, and Ondokuz Mayis.

Travelers to southeastern Turkey, as well as to Mt. Ararat, should exercise extreme caution.

Southeastern Turkey, including the provinces of Hatay, Kilis, Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Sirnak, Diyarbakır, Van, Siirt, Muş, Mardin, Batman, Bingöl, Tunceli, Hakkâri, and Bitlis, is vulnerable to terrorist activities and kinetic actions by Government of Turkey security forces. Areas in this region may be subject to temporary security restrictions that limit the movement and activities of civilians. U.S. government employees require advance approval prior to official travel to these provinces. The Consulate prohibits unofficial travel to these provinces.

In particular, Diyarbakır, Mardin, Sirnak, and Hakkâri have experienced continued violence associated with conflict between Turkish security forces and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) terrorist group. Large-scale terrorist attacks including suicide bombings, ambushes, car bomb detonations, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), kidnappings for ransom, shootings, roadblocks, and violent demonstrations have occurred in these areas.

Mount Ararat, in Ağrı province, and areas immediately adjacent to the Syria and Iraq borders are special military zones. Travelers must obtain permission for access from the Turkish government.

U.S. military personnel and Department of Defense civilians have additional restrictions, and should consult their local area commander to obtain the latest travel guidance.

Transportation-Safety Situation

For more information, review OSAC’s report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.

Road Safety and Road Conditions

Throughout 2018, Adana and other cities throughout the southeast experienced significant road construction projects for some major thoroughfares. Though construction often is complete in a short time, traffic disruptions can be abundant, as projects affect large areas, constraining road use.

Generally, road conditions are good, especially along major arteries and thoroughfares. However, smaller streets in neighborhoods and in rural areas can be in poorer condition. Driving at night or in inclement weather can be particularly challenging.

Drive defensively at all times. Traffic and the threat of accidents provide a daily challenge, and traffic fatalities are high nationwide. Drivers are aggressive and frequently ignore basic traffic regulations by driving through red lights and stop signs, or by turning left from the far right lane.

Pedestrians also flaunt traffic rules by crossing against the light and walking in the street. Parked vehicles often block sidewalks and driveways. Pedestrians do not have the right of way; exercise extreme caution when crossing streets.

Vendors and panhandlers frequently gather at stoplights along major roads and at hotels. Panhandlers can be aggressive. When going through traffic areas with stoplights, lock vehicle doors and roll up windows. Be cautious if a bystander flags you down to indicate a flat tire; drive to the nearest attended gas station before stopping.

For more information on self-driving, review OSAC’s report, Driving Overseas: Best Practices.

Public Transportation Conditions

Adana’s rail mass transit system is not extensive, and not widely used by visitors. Municipal buses and private dolmuş minibuses cover most of the city, but can be hard to navigate without some level of Turkish-language fluency.

Taxis are plentiful, and the majority of drivers are honest. Only patronize taxis with meters. Sit in the back seat, and use the seat belt. Do not accept food/ drink from the driver. Record the license or number of any taxi you enter.

Aviation/Airport Conditions

Security at Adana Şakirpaşa Airport (ADA) is satisfactory. Throughout 2018, Adana airport and other regional airports experienced shifting levels of security, to include the presence of Turkish National Police, Gendarme forces, and extra private security at vehicle and passenger screening points.

ADA airport security includes three rings of screening. The first checkpoint is at the airport’s perimeter, where the Turkish National Police (TNP) randomly screens vehicles. The second screening area occurs at the entrances to the terminal building. The third screening area occurs at the entrance to the departures lounge.

Private Turkish security and other air-operations-related firms generally handle traveler/luggage screening. The TNP Immigration Department processes passengers who enter/exit Turkey via international airports. In addition, the Customs Department randomly inspects luggage and other personal items.

Terrorism Threat

Local, Regional, and International Terrorism Threats/Concerns

There is considerable risk from terrorism in Adana. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Turkey. Terrorist organizations explicitly target Western tourists and expatriates. Terrorists may attack with little/no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Threats to U.S. citizens and interests from transnational and indigenous groups alike remain common. Known terrorist groups active in Turkey include:

ISIS has a significant presence in northern Syria, and along portions of the Turkish/Syrian border. Many/most foreign terrorist fighters travel through Turkey to Syria and Iraq. ISIS has claimed or been implicated in numerous attacks, including suicide bombings in Ankara (October 2015), Istanbul’s Sultanahmet (January 2016) and Taksim areas (March 2016), a small arms and suicide bombing attack at Istanbul’s Atatürk Airport (June 2016), a Gaziantep wedding bombing (August 2016), and the Reina Nightclub attack (January 2017).

The Kurdistan People’s Congress (also Kongra Gel, KGK; Kurdistan Workers’ Party, PKK) has been the most active terrorist organization in Turkey, targeting Turkish government facilities and infrastructure. The PKK continues to conduct attacks against Turkish security forces throughout Turkey. The Kurdistan Freedom Falcons (TAK, the Kurdistan Freedom/Liberation Hawks/Falcons) group presents itself as a splinter of the PKK and has taken responsibility for attacks in major urban areas.

The Revolutionary People’s Liberation Party/Front (DHKP/C) has targeted Turkish and U.S. facilities alike.

While al-Qa’ida, including its Syrian affiliate al-Nusrah Front (ANF), maintains a presence in Turkey, it has not staged attacks recently. However, groups and individuals inspired by al-Qa’ida might attempt to do so, placing U.S. and Turkish interests at risk.

The conflict in Syria and the renewed hostilities between Kurdish terrorists and Turkish security forces in Kurdish-majority provinces of the southeast continue to be of concern to the overall stability in the southern provinces. Notably, in 2017, there were reported incidents of direct terrorist attack and indirect fire such as mortars and rockets throughout the southeast.

Turkish media outlets have reported numerous terrorism-linked incidents from 2015 through 2018. Attacks include a vehicle-borne IED detonated in front of Adana’s governor’s office (November 2016) and an attack on police headquarters in Gaziantep (January 2017). There were no notable attacks in Adana in 2018.

Turkish law enforcement regularly investigates and detains individuals suspected of terrorist activity, including in Adana, Diyarbakır, and Gaziantep.

Towns along and crossings of the Turkish-Syrian border are areas of concern. Cross-border indirect fire has previously raised concern in Kilis and Hatay provinces. There have also been reports of small-arms fire across the border from Syria into Kilis and Gaziantep. There have been media reports of ISIS and other extremists using southeastern Turkey as a safe area to funnel personnel across the border and to bring wounded comrades for medical treatment.

Media reports show Turkish security forces taking action to disrupt potential terrorist plots and to discourage potential supporters of terrorist activity.

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment

Several media outlets propagate anti-U.S. rhetoric containing conspiratorial undertones, suggesting that the U.S. is responsible for bringing increased political instability to Turkey. However, this sentiment has not manifested to violent demonstrations and/or targeting of U.S. private sector interests. Most anti-U.S. sentiment expressed in the media comes as a result two key issues: Turkey’s request to extradite alleged coup leader Fethullah Gülen from the U.S.; and U.S. interactions with Kurdish groups in Syria.

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

A failed coup challenged Turkey’s political stability in July 2016. The coup attempt was short-lived, despite its significant casualty count. The Turkish populace is polarized between those who support the ruling Justice & Development Party (AKP), founded by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and his opposition. Broad civilian resistance during the failed coup demonstrated the populace remains committed to civilian control of the government. This, combined with the fact that the government removed all combat arms units of the Turkish military from major urban areas following the coup attempt, indicates coups are unlikely in the near future. In the wake of the 2016 attempt, the government fired and/or arrested several thousand members of the military and police services; purges of their ranks continue. Nonetheless, Turkish security forces maintain robust capabilities, especially in the realm of counterterrorism.

Civil Unrest

There is moderate risk from civil unrest in Adana. Following the 2013 Gezi Park riots in Istanbul, the government of Turkey enacted legislation to inflict harsher punishments for illegal/violent protests. For example, covering one’s face during a protest can result in a prison sentence of up to 25 years.

During December 2017 demonstrations near official U.S. facilities, Turkish police provided additional security resources. The demonstrations were orderly and concluded without incident.

Religious/Ethnic Violence

The Turkish government generally remains tolerant of its religious and ethnic minorities, and provides increased levels of security support around non-Sunni Islamic places of worship (e.g. churches, synagogues, Alevi mosques) in reaction to terror threats. However, Turkish society can be less accepting of minorities. For example, in 2017, widespread ultra-nationalist sentiment manifested itself through violent attacks against Syrian refugee, Kurdish, and Alevi neighborhoods. Additionally, reaction to Israel-related policies and actions has included spontaneous demonstrations at synagogues. For more information, review OSAC’s Report Putting Your Faith in Travel: Security Implications.

Post-specific Concerns

Environmental Hazards

Turkey is in an earthquake prone region. Many buildings do not meet Western seismic standards. Remain cognizant of hardened cover in the case of a seismic event.

• On July 21, 2017, a 6.6 earthquake injured 360 in the resort of Bodrum, and triggered a small tsunami.

• On October 23, 2011, a 7.2 earthquake occurred in Van province; more than 600 people died, and thousands more were injured.

Economic Concerns

Some counterfeiting of luxury items does occur in certain areas of Turkey. Do not buy counterfeit/pirated goods. Not only are bootleg copies illegal to bring into the U.S., purchasing them is against local law.

Personal Identity Concerns

In general, Turkish men are respectful toward women; however, news media reports incidents of domestic violence. Foreign women may be subject to verbal harassment, staring, pinching, or following. Some Turkish men might interpret smiling or friendliness as an invitation; it is best to keep interactions with unfamiliar men as formal as possible and avoid eye contact with men in public. The Embassy is aware of multiple sexual assaults against U.S. citizens in Turkey, including assaults against tourists traveling alone or in small groups, and at spas and hamams.

Though standing out as a Westerner in Adana is a possibility, local residents (women and men alike) typically dress in Western fashion. During the summer, it is not uncommon to see women wearing shorts and dresses and men in shorts and sandals.

Homophobia, transphobia, and intolerance towards homosexuality are widespread throughout Turkey. Anti-discrimination laws do not protected LGBTI individuals, who have been the targets of violence in recent years. Law enforcement officials sometimes use references in the law relating to “offenses against public morality,” “protection of the family,” and “unnatural sexual behavior” as a basis for abuse. In addition, the law states that “no association may be founded for purposes against law and morality,” a clause that authorities have used in attempts to shut down or limit the activities of associations working on LGBTI matters.

The Turkish constitution prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of state services, employment, education, and access to health care. However, access to buildings and public transportation for the disabled in most cities is quite limited, and generally, accessibility for people with disabilities in Turkey is poor. Airports and metro stations are typically accessible, but buses are not.

Drug-related Crimes

Turkey is a transit country for a substantial amount of illegal drugs from Central Asia and Afghanistan.

The PKK is one of several organizations engaged in trafficking and marketing of drugs. The PKK has an established infrastructure and network to produce, transport, and traffic opiates and cannabis throughout Europe. Material evidence and intelligence sources have shown that the PKK is also engaged in laundering money from human/drug trafficking. The Turkish government supports a unified front in the fight against drug trafficking and terrorism, as illegal proceeds generated from the illicit drug trade directly support terrorist organizations.

Kidnapping Threat

In recent years, there have been politically or criminally motivated kidnappings involving Turkish politicians and citizens. While there has been no reported kidnapping of Westerners from Turkey, the presence of ISIS and other extremist groups is a concern. For more information, please review OSAC’s Report, Kidnapping: The Basics.

Police Response

The Turkish National Police (TNP) is a highly trained, professional, and capable security agency. In the wake of increased threat from terrorism, the TNP provides a highly visible uniformed presence in/around Adana, to include crowded locations of critical infrastructure (e.g. transportation hubs, shopping malls, roadways). Police in Adana do not typically have a working proficiency of English; however, travelers can work through their local/regional security managers or hotel security when looking to engage with police on non-emergency matters.

Turkish law dictates behavior toward Turkish political figures and institutions, particularly the founder of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. It is a crime to insult or to deface statues and images of Atatürk or the Turkish flag, including its use on clothing. Authorities enforce these laws vigorously. Citizens will take offense at any perceived criticism or show of disrespect toward Atatürk. In addition, insults or criticism in social media or otherwise against political figures, including the president, are increasingly prosecuted in criminal courts.

How to Handle Incidents of Police Detention or Harassment

Any detained or arrested U.S. citizen should contact American Citizen Services at +90(322)455-4100. U.S. Consulate officers have experienced several challenges associated with obtaining access to U.S. citizens detained on the grounds of alleged connections to elements deemed subversive to the Turkish state. The Government of Turkey typically requires approval through diplomatic channels before granting consular access, and does not routinely grant consular access to detained U.S. citizens who also possess Turkish citizenship.

Crime Victim Assistance

Turkish National Police (in major cities): 155

Traffic Accidents: 154

Jandarma (outside major cities): 156

Medical: 112

Fire: 110

For local first responders, refer to the Embassy’s Emergency Assistance page.

The Turkish National Police is a professional police force and is responsive to crimes committed against foreigners. If a U.S. citizen becomes the victim of a crime while in Adana, contact the local police and the U.S. Consulate at +90(322)455-4100.

Police/Security Agencies

TNP is one of the largest public sector organizations in the country. It is the leading law enforcement organization, and prides itself on providing professional police and security services to the public. The Gendarmerie (Jandarma) is a paramilitary police force that provides law enforcement services outside of major cities and in rural areas.

Medical Emergencies

In the event of a medical emergency, dial 112 for emergency medical ambulance service. Most emergency rooms in Adana have physicians who speak English and provide quality medical care.

Contact Information for Available Medical Services

For medical assistance, refer to the Consulate’s Medical Assistance page.

Available Air Ambulance Services

 

• REGA Air Ambulance Service: +41-333-333-333; +41-58-654-3980; +41-44-654-3311; ops@Rega.ch
• Red Star Aviation: +90-216-588-0216; +90-216-588-0216; Ops@RedStar.com.tr
• International SOS: +44-208-762-8133 x1; TricareTLN.top@InternationalSOS.com

Insurance Guidance

Travelers should ensure they have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Country-specific Vaccination and Health Guidance

In Adana and some other cities throughout the southeast, air quality during the winter can become extremely poor due to the burning of coal, wood, and other materials for home heating.

The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Turkey.

OSAC Country Council Information

There is currently no active Country Council in Adana. Interested private-sector security managers should contact OSAC’s Europe Team with any questions.

U.S. Consulate Location and Contact Information

Embassy/Consulate Address and Hours of Operation

Girne Bulvarı 212, Güzelevler Mahallesi, Yüreğir, Adana

0800-1700, Monday-Friday. The Consulate closes for all U.S. federal holidays and select Turkish holidays.

Consulate Contact Numbers

Switchboard: +90 (322) 455-4100

Website: https://tr.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/adana/

Nearby Posts: Embassy Ankara, Consulate General Istanbul

Consulate Guidance

The U.S. government has very limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens traveling outside of Adana in southeastern Turkey, as the U.S. government restricts employee travel within the region.

U.S. citizens should register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to ensure that they receive security messages and notices from the U.S. Embassy. Registration allows the Embassy or Consulate to locate U.S. citizens more easily in the case of an emergency. U.S. citizens without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in the case of an emergency.

Additional Resource: Turkey Country Information Sheet