Canadians in Beijing warned to ‘exercise a high degree of caution’ after threats

The federal government warned Canadians on Thursday morning to “exercise a high degree of caution” when travelling to Beijing due to an increased risk of possible terrorist activity.

The advisory, issued shortly after 6 a.m. ET on Christmas Eve, urged caution “due to the occurrence of isolated acts of violence, including bombings and protests,” according to the Global Affairs Canada statement.

Global Affairs Canada did say though that there is “no nationwide advisory in effect for China.”

Canada joins four other Western nations, including the United States, Britain, and France that have said they received information about possible threats against Westerners in Sanlitun, a popular shopping district in the Chinese capital, during the Christmas holidays.

They also urged their citizens to be vigilant when travelling to the area.

Armed law enforcement officials could be seen standing on guard in the area, which is occupied with various big-name retail outlets and embassies.