Warden Notice

American Embassy Belgrade
September 25, 2009

INCREASE IN REPORTED ATTACKS AGAINST EXPATRIATES IN BELGRADE

The U.S. Embassy wishes to alert American Citizens to a recent spate of crimes affecting the expatriate community in Belgrade. The Regional Security Office (RSO) states that trends involving physical assaults and gun violence remain a threat to foreigners. The RSO wishes to highlight the some recent criminal events:

• On September 16, 2009, a British citizen was shot outside of the Freestyler boat (Splav) nightclub. The victim was with a group of other expats. It appears he was caught in the crossfire of two rival narcotics gangs near the restaurant.

• On September 17, two French Citizens were violently attacked by a large group of fans of Belgrade’s Partizan soccer team. The attack took place at the Irish Gardens, a popular expat restaurant. The attack took place just prior to the Partizan-Toulouse soccer game. According to the RSO, this incident highlights a rise in soccer hooligan related violence. The RSO recommends avoiding areas where soccer hooligans congregate. The police have arrested 11 suspects they believe were involved in the attack.

• On September 20, 2009, an Australian citizen was attacked by two youths in a public restroom in Kalemegdan fortress. Witnesses stated that they noticed a group of youths following him after he purchased items in a souvenir shop. There were no provocations or words before the attack. It appears that the individual was attacked because he was speaking English. The police have arrested several suspects in the attack.

• Police have reported that over the previous 10 days, three citizens were wounded and one killed during gun fights between local narcotics gangs.

While Belgrade remains a generally safe city, visitors are urged to be aware of their surroundings and to keep a low profile.

American citizens are encourage to review the Country Specific Information for Serbia for additional detailed information about crime and security in country. Americans living or traveling in Serbia are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade through the State Department's travel registration website, so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Serbia. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.

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