UK holidaymakers have been issued with a grim warning over the risk of violent crime and robbery in a new Foreign Office (FCDO) update for a popular long-haul holiday destination. The alert for tourists planning to visit South Africa was published yesterday (Thursday) and advises visitors to be vigilant, and not travel alone.
The FCDO said: “South Africa has a high rate of crime, including carjacking, house robbery, rape, and murder. The risk of violent crime to visitors travelling to the main tourist destinations is generally low. The South African Tourism Police prioritise protecting tourists and are deployed in several towns and cities.
“However, you should always remain vigilant, as police resourcing can be limited.”
Pre-pandemic some 430,000 UK tourists a year visited South Africa, and British holidaymakers have started to return to the country since Covid restrictions were eased. Most visits are trouble-free, but a small number of British people encounter problems.
The FCDO update stated: "South Africa has a high rate of crime including carjacking, house robberies, rape and murder. The risk of violent crime to visitors travelling to the main tourist destinations is generally low, but all visitors should remain vigilant.
"Most violent crimes tend to occur in townships and isolated areas. However, armed robberies and violent crime have taken place in other places, including popular tourist spots such as Table Mountain. Crime can also take place in and around transport hubs, including airports."
It added: “Try to travel with a friend, or ensure that a friend or responsible person is aware of your itinerary. If you choose to visit a township, you should use a responsible and reliable tour guide and should not travel to townships without one.
“Central business districts of major cities have a greater threat of crime, including armed robbery, than suburban areas, and the threat increases after dark.
“Fewer people in city centres post-Covid may increase the threat of crime. If you are visiting the central business district of any major city, follow basic security advice: remain alert, do not leave valuables on show, and take safe and reliable transport to and from your destination, be wary of people who approach you, and do not walk around after dark.”
Travellers should also be wary of criminals posing as officials, such as police officers. The FCDO advised: "If in doubt, ask to see their ID and move into a safe, public and open space. All police officers must carry their Appointment Certificate on them.”
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