Cheap car hire Cameroon - Crime

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Crime

CRIME: U.S. citizens should exercise caution when traveling in Cameroon. All foreigners are potential targets for theft with possible attendant violence. Petty crimes, crimes against persons, thefts from vehicles and of vehicles are the most common criminal activities. Armed banditry is a growing problem throughout all ten provinces in Cameroon. To curb banditry, security personnel may request persons to show their passport, residence card, driver's license and/or vehicle registration at random checkpoints. Certified copies of these important documents should be kept in a secure location separate from the originals.

The risk of street and residential crime is high, and incidents of violent crime are on the rise throughout the country. Reports of carjackings and burglaries remain high, particularly in Yaounde and Douala. Carjackings have also been reported on rural highways. Crimes against property, such as carjacking, have often been accompanied by violent acts. Travelers are advised to remain aware of their surroundings at all times and to follow routine security precautions such as locking car, hotel, and house doors. Travel after dark is extremely risky and should be avoided.

If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, help find appropriate medical care, contact family members or friends, and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help U.S. citizens understand the local criminal justice process and find an attorney if needed.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate and to the local police. U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Traveler's to Sub-Saharan Africa" for ways to ensure a trouble-free journey. The pamphlets are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, telephone (202) 783-3238, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/index.html, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.