Security in South Africa

According to reports released yesterday, a Swedish tour group was robbed at gunpoint in the provincial capital of South Africa's Western Cape province, Cape Town, on 5 January.

The group of 17 was reportedly touring the Khayelitsha informal settlement, located in the city's Cape Flats, at the time of the incident. The group was intercepted at a local daycare centre by at least four armed youths, who went on to rob the tourists and their guide of their possessions. Noone was injured.

This latest robbery underscores the persistent threat that crime poses to travellers in South Africa, and in informal settlements in particular.

South Africa has one of the highest rates of violent offences in the world, including murder, rape, carjacking and robbery. Typically, the most commonly reported crimes in Cape Town are petty in nature, such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and mugging. However, violent crimes, such as armed robbery and carjacking, are still significant concerns for visitors to the city.

Townships and informal settlements, including Khayelitsha, Langa and Gugulethu, pose a particular risk to travellers due to the high crime and poverty rates experienced in these areas. RPS advises anyone in South Africa, regardless of location, to remain aware of the security threats facing foreigners.

RPS advises travellers to be vigilant and aware of their security, and not to display overt signs of wealth. As assailants may be armed, travellers are advised not to resist should they fall victim to an attack.

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