Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Rally Planned for September 7

Released on September 4, 2013

http://cambodia.usembassy.gov/090413_acs.html

This security message is being issued to alert U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Cambodia of the potential for ongoing political gatherings and demonstrations in response to the expected release on September 8 of the official results from the July 28 national elections.   On Saturday,  September 7, a rally in excess of 10,000 people is planned for Phnom Penh’s Freedom Park (Streets 106/108 between 51 and 63) from 8am-11am.  Cambodia’s national elections were largely peaceful, and peaceful rallies have taken place in Phnom Penh’s Freedom Park and elsewhere since the elections took place.  Although recent political gatherings in Cambodia have been largely nonviolent, even demonstrations or events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence without warning. The U.S. Embassy encourages you to avoid large crowds and immediately leave any area where crowds are gathering.   You should remain alert to local security developments by monitoring local news reports, be vigilant regarding your personal security and preparedness, be aware of your surroundings, and plan your activities accordingly.

We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Cambodia enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at http://www.travel.state.gov/.  STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency.  If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. 

Regularly monitor the State Department's website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Cambodia.  For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.

Contact the U.S. embassy for up-to-date information on travel restrictions.  You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).  Follow us on Twitter andFacebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.

The U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh is located at 1, Street 96 (near Wat Phnom) Phnom Penh, Cambodia and is open on Monday thru Friday (except for U.S. federal holidays) from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and the telephone number is 023-728-000.  If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance during regular office hours please call +855 23-728-402 / +855 23-728-051 / +855 23-728-234. In the event of an emergency after hours, please call +855 23-728000.  Press 1 and then 0 to be transferred to the operator.