Italy tells citizens to be 'vigilant' in India as diplomatic row deepens

NEW DELHI (AFP) - Italy on Saturday warned its nationals in India to be "vigilant and cautious", as a diplomatic row over two Italian marines who skipped bail while facing trial for murder deepened.

The advice came a day after India's airports were put on alert to prevent Italy's Ambassador Daniele Mancini from leaving India, according to Indian home ministry sources.

"In connection with any protests, especially in Kerala state, related to the two sailors, citizens are urged to always maintain a vigilant and cautious attitude and stay away from any crowds," the Italian embassy said in an advisory on its a website.

The warning reflected apparent Italian concern about a possible backlash after Rome refused to return the two marines charged with murdering two Indian fishermen in waters off the coast of the southern state of Kerala last year.