Security Message from the U.S. Embassy

[Bonnie]

U.S. Embassy in Panama

Security Message for U.S. Citizens

December 19, 2016

 

The U.S. Embassy in Panama informs U.S. citizens that it has received a report of planned demonstrations on December 20, 2016 in Panama City related to the anniversary of Operation Just Cause.  One demonstration is scheduled to begin at the U.S. Embassy in the morning.  The American Citizen Services, Federal Benefits, and Visa Units will be closed to the public on December 20.  All U.S. citizens are reminded to remain diligent in your personal security.

 

U.S. Citizens should plan their travel accordingly and avoid all confrontations.  Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.  You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.  Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates.  Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security

 

For further information about security in Panama:

 

·                See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Panama 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 Panama, located at Building 783, Demetrio Basilio Lakas Avenue Clayton, Panama, at +507-317-5030, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday.  After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +507-317-5000.

 

·                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).