ISLAMABAD, Aug 9: The US Embassy in Pakistan on Tuesday warned its citizens not to travel to Murree where a “sectarian attack” was feared during the upcoming Independence Day weekend, an official said.

“There is new information indicating the potential for a sectarian attack in the city of Murree during the Independence Day period, which culminates on August 14, 2005,” said the notice.

“Americans are advised to avoid Murree. American residents of the city are encouraged to restrict their movements to essential travel only until further notice.”

Murree is thronged in August by tourists who escape the lowland summer heat and seek out its alpine climate.

A Pakistani security official said there was no “specific information” about a possible attack in Murree this weekend.

“Security agencies are already on high alert all over Pakistan as a crackdown against extremists and militants is going on,” the official told AFP. —AFP