Security Message for U.S., U.K. Citizens: Possible Demonstrations in Major Cambodian Cities. Emb.

[geovalin]

The U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh alerts U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Cambodia of the heightened possibility of political demonstrations near Cambodia’s international airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, on the evening of Monday, November 16, and possibly into the following day.

Additional caution should be taken throughout Phnom Penh and other Cambodian cities. Press reports indicate the main opposition leader, for whom an arrest warrant has been issued, is scheduled to return to Cambodia late on Monday, November 16.

Although recent opposition demonstrations in Cambodia have been largely nonviolent, U.S. citizens are reminded that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and have the potential to escalate into violence without warning. The U.S. Embassy recommends you avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution when in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations and immediately leave any area where there are large gatherings. You should remain alert of local security developments by monitoring local news reports, exercising vigilance regarding your preparedness and personal security, remaining aware of your surroundings, and planning your activities accordingly. Please follow the guidance below to receive the most updated security information from the U.S. Embassy.

General information for travelers:

• Please see the U.S. Department of State’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Cambodia Country Specific Information.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Contact the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia, located at 1, Street 96 (near Wat Phnom), Phnom Penh, at +855-(0)23-728-000, 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Monday through Friday. The after-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +855-(0)23-728-000.
• Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

source: http://cambodia.usembassy.gov/acs_111615.html

[geovalin]

British Embassy Cautions about Violence in Cambodia

Khmer Times/Jonathan Cox

Monday, 16 November 2015

165 views

Shortly after the American embassy posted an advisory warning citizens about possible protests linked to the now-cancelled return of opposition leader Sam Rainsy tonight, the British Embassy followed suit with a warning message posted on its foreign travel advice page for Cambodia.

"Political tensions have once more increased," the update said. "Allow extra time if traveling to Phnom Penh airport and follow news reports closely for news of any delays or protests.” Protests are already being organized, with a political activist named Thy Sovanna using her wildly popular Facebook page to call for “1,000 youth” to welcome and protect Mr. Rainsy when he arrives at Phnom Penh airport tonight.

read more: http://www.khmertimeskh.com/news/17846/british-embassy-cautions-about-violence-in-cambodia/