Photo: John Vink

Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Violent Demonstrations in Phnom Penh

US Embassy | Released on January 3, 2014

This security message is being issued to alert U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Cambodia to ongoing political protests and demonstrations in the country. The Embassy has received reports of violent clashes between demonstrators and government security forces one kilometer south of the Phnom Penh International Airport on Veng Sreng Road, including possible fatalities, and advises U.S. citizens to avoid the area southwest of the airport at this time. 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). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the nearest U.S. embassy or 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 and Facebook, 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 Monday thru Friday (except for U.S. federal holidays) from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. 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) 023-728-402, 023-728-051, or 023-728-234. In the event of an emergency after hours, please call (+855) 023-728-000, then press 1 and then 0 to be transferred to the operator.