Car hire in Georgia - Crime

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Crime

CRIME: Crime is a critical problem in Georgia. Petty incidents of pick-pocketing, purse snatching, and cell phone theft are common. American citizens and other foreigners have been recent victims of more serious violent crimes, including rape, carjacking, assault, and armed robbery. Some of these robberies and assaults have occurred in areas frequented by American citizens and foreigners, such as on side streets near Tbilisi 's city center, including areas off the main avenues in the Vake and Vera districts, and Chavchavadze and Rustaveli avenues, as well as the Saburtalo region of Tbilisi. These crimes often occurred when the victim was alone, after dark, and in unfamiliar surroundings. Economic conditions and opportunities are poor for the average Georgian. There is a great disparity in affluence between foreigners and a large percentage of Georgians. Americans and Westerners are perceived as rich and therefore, more lucrative targets for economic-based crimes.

Petty theft is also a problem on the Tbilisi metro system and in mini-vans used for public transport. American citizens are advised to use personal vehicles or take cars from established taxi companies that will carry passengers door-to-door. While the security of overland travel in Georgia has improved, vehicular and rail traffic remains vulnerable to robbery.

The threat of kidnapping exists both within and outside of Tbilisi. In the past, foreign businessmen have been abducted for ransom. Americans in the Tbilisi region have received kidnapping threats. The possibility of similar risk to Americans elsewhere in the country cannot be discounted.

Aside from typical street and residential crimes, violent attacks of the victim are becoming more commonplace. Using excessively violent tactics, criminals often incapacitate their victims in order to carry out their intended crime. This is especially true with carjackings.

Therefore, all American citizens visiting Tbilisi and other areas in Georgia are strongly advised to exercise basic security precautions. They should vary times and routes, especially from places of residence to work locations. They should maintain a low profile by, for example, not carrying large amounts of cash, wearing excessive amounts of jewelry, or behaving in a manner that would draw unnecessary attention. Additionally, Americans should be aware of their surroundings, travel in pairs or groups, and stay on main streets and routes.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to 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 you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney, if needed.

U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, A Safe Trip Abroad, for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.