A specific danger, even on some heavily traveled roads, is unauthorized roadblocks, where motorists are compelled to pay sums of money to armed personnel. A number of shootings have occurred at these roadblocks. The U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh advises Embassy personnel not to travel by train because of the high risk of banditry. Travel by boat should also be avoided. Boats are often overcrowded and lack adequate safety equipment.
Owners accept no liability for accidents.
There have been several incidents on the water route to Siem Reap, including a sinking in early 1997. The decline of the Cambodian economy has contributed to a dramatic increase in armed robberies and assaults, often during daylight hours. Americans should avoid traveling alone and in remote areas of Phnom Penh, especially after dark. The U.S. Embassy advises its personnel to carry photocopies of their U.S. passport, driver's license or other important documents, rather than the actual documents, as these documents may be confiscated. The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh.