Johannesburg Country Council

The Johannesburg Country Council web site has been established as a means to facilitate communication between  the U.S. private sector and U.S. Consulate General Johannesburg.

South Africa 2010 Crime and Safety Report

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

The Department of State's Bureau of Diplomatic Security rates Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town as critical crime threat cities. With South Africa preparing to host the FIFA World Cup in 2010, crime continues to be a key strategic concern for the South African government, as well as for U.S. government employees and visitors.  In general, crime in South Africa ranges from petty muggings to ATM scams to armed residential home invasions. These crimes occur with high frequency and increasing sophistication on the part of well-armed criminals. They can occur in any neighborhood. American citizens who become victims of crime in South Africa are not specifically targeted due to citizenship, but are targeted because they present themselves as an easy target for criminal elements.  The prospect of quick, easy money is the motive for most of the burglaries, robberies, muggings, and carjackings committed in South Africa. Any person, regardless of ethnicity or socio-economic status, especially a person who displays any outward signs of affluence, is susceptible to become a victim of crime in South Africa.

Crime Threats

The major crime concerns that dominate the environment in South Africa are the full range of violent, confrontational crimes. These crimes include home invasion robberies, burglaries, carjackings, street muggings, smash-and-grabs, organized attacks on commercial and retail centers such as shopping malls and outlets, as well as attacks on cash-in-transit vehicles and personnel. Of particular concern for American citizens living in South Africa are home invasion robberies. These crimes are often violent in nature and can occur at any time in the day. In many cases, criminals prefer that the occupant is home because this usually means that the residential alarm is off and the criminals can force the victim to identify where valuables are located. The recently released South African Police Service (SAPS) 2009 crime statistics indicate that the number of home invasions has risen significantly over the last six years, from 5,375 reported cases in 2004 to a total of 8,122 in 2009 in the Gauteng Province alone (Gauteng Province includes the cities of Johannesburg and Pretoria). Measures to combat home invasions include several layers of residential security such as perimeter walls, alarms, and grills on windows.  Vehicle gates should also be equipped with anti-lift brackets, as criminals have been known to use crowbars and pneumatic jacks to lift gates off their tracks. Additional 2009 crime statistics are available at:

http://www.saps.gov.za/statistics/reports/crimestats/2009/categories.htm.

Another crime trend throughout South Africa is the rise in business robberies by bands of well-armed criminals. Restaurants, jewelry shops, grocery stores, and other business establishments are the primary targets. The 2009 SAPS crime statistics reveal a steady rise in this category, with a 21.9 percent increase from the previous reporting period in the Gauteng Province. In addition to raiding the merchandise, these take-over style robberies allow robbers to relieve customers of cash, cell phones, and other valuables. Any resistance can result in physical harm and, in the most extreme cases, murder. These attacks on business and retail stores are generally carried out by gangs of up to 12 individuals carrying automatic weapons. Often, the primary target of these criminal syndicates are the cash-in-transit vehicles and personnel (armored cars and personnel), and store patrons are secondary targets.  It is recommended that armored cars (and their uniformed personnel) be avoided, especially when they are making deposits or picking up cash receipts. 

Perhaps the most vulnerable point for any resident in South Africa is the driveway at their residence. Criminals use driveways as choke points, attacking victims when they are waiting for the vehicle gate to open. These types of crimes can result in armed robberies and/or carjackings.  According to SAPS statistics, over 80 percent of all carjacking incidents in South Africa occur as the victim arrives at home and pulls into the driveway, with the carjackers pulling up behind the victim in order to block an escape path.  Victims who resist or fail to comply with demands may be killed or seriously injured.  In the worst case scenarios, robbers force the victim into the house, rob the house of its valuables, and drive away with the loot.  The U.S. Embassy advises official and private Americans to be aware of their surroundings and notice if anyone may be following when approaching the residence. It is also recommended that vehicles wait in the street until the vehicle gate is open, before pulling into the residence.

Other crimes that occur frequently in South Africa include smash and grab robberies at major intersections and highway off-ramps. When driving, all doors should be locked, no valuables should be left in plain view and car windows should be kept up. Pick pocketing is also common and travelers should safeguard their passports, wallets, and other valuables and know where these possessions are located at all times. 

Regardless of the type of crime being committed, what distinguishes the crime in South Africa from elsewhere is the level of gratuitous violence associated with these crimes, as criminals are not hesitant to use lethal weapons in the course of carrying out their activities. Additionally, these crimes permeate the entire country, regardless of the socio-economic status of a particular neighborhood or area. Common practice throughout South Africa is to never resist if confronted by an armed individual. The majority of violence acts occur when victims have reacted negatively to criminals’ demands.

Financial and identity theft crimes are also prevalent throughout South Africa and include ATM scams, credit card scams, and 419 scams. ATM fraud is prevalent through the country and can include the placement of a skimmer device on the ATM machine itself, or under the guise of a helpful citizen who offers to assist you. Individuals should always thoroughly inspect any ATM machine for suspect attachments or devices and ensure you use a machine in a controlled area such as a mall.  Also, never allow anyone to provide assistance and never give out PIN codes.  Credit card scams are also popular. Residents and travelers should ensure that credit cards are not taken to a back room for processing; most businesses have portable credit card machines that they will bring to customers. 

There has also been a marked increase in the so-called 419 scams originating from South Africa.  A 419 Scam is an advance fee fraud scheme where the victim is requested to provide advance money in order to pay up-front costs associated with receiving substantial monetary windfall. This type of scam can be initiated under the guise of a seemingly legitimate business proposition.   Bogus websites are set up on the internet in order to dupe the victim who is seeking a specific business opportunity.  Based on the information contained on the bogus website, the victim then contacts the scammer and agrees to travel to South Africa in order to negotiate a business deal.  The trap is sprung when the victim arrives in the country.  Upon arrival, the unwary victim can be kidnapped for ransom or bilked out of funds until he/she has no more.  When individuals fall victim to 419 scams, SAPS will not pursue the case to prosecution unless the victim is willing to file a formal complaint and testify in open South African court.  For more information on these types of scams, please to the SAPS website at: www.SAPS.GOV.ZA and search 419 scams. If OSAC members receive such a solicitation, please visit the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s website before providing any personal/financial details or making a financial commitment at: www.fbi.gov/majcases/fraud/fraudschemes.htm.

Road Conditions and Road Hazards

South Africa's highway system and toll roads are generally in good condition. Secondary roads are generally well maintained but frequently develop pot holes. Roadway policing mainly consists of speed traps and checkpoints where officers check for mechanical malfunctions and operator compliance with license restrictions. When traveling in South Africa and stopped at one of these checkpoints, individuals may be required to provide a valid driver's license as well as a passport with a current visa or visitor's permit. If stopped by the police without valid identification or a current visa, individuals of any nationality can be subject to arrest, detention and deportation.

Toll roads have call boxes for emergencies, as in the U.S., but many of them are inoperable due to poor maintenance. Highway lighting is also non-existent outside many cities and towns.  South Africa has many fatal traffic accidents throughout the country.  Many of these fatalities are due to pedestrians being struck by motorists. Unsafe driving, vehicles in disrepair, excessive speeding, unlicensed drivers and drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs cause many of the traffic accidents in South Africa.

There have been reports that police impersonators claiming to be “tourist police” have attempted to pull over unsuspecting motorists on the highway.  These impersonators use normal vehicles with a police light in the dash board and attempt to pull over other vehicles. If a vehicle stops, the occupants are robbed of their belongings. It is recommended that vehicles not stop on the highways in the vicinity of the Johannesburg international airport, but instead drive to a well-lit area such as a mall, gas station, or police station.  South Africa does not have a tourist policing unit and it would be very rare that an unmarked police vehicle would attempt to stop a motorist.  Blue and/or red “bubble lights” were removed from police service several years ago and are no longer used.  Highway patrol vehivles are well marked and employ white and blue storbe light packages.  These impersonators have been so bold as to approach pedestrian in order to shake them down. 

Criminals have also been known to target vehicles on the highways. Gangs will place debris in the road during the night and wait for a vehicle to stop after hitting the object, at which point the passengers are robbed of their belongings. Other tactics employed on the highways include dropping rocks or paint from bridges, onto vehicles passing underneath.  If forced to pull over for any reason, it is recommended to drive to an area that is well lighted such as a gas station or police station. 

Motorists should always travel with a fully charged cell phone and be aware of their general geographic location at all times. Highway signage in South Africa can be inconsistent. This is especially true when traveling on secondary roads. Motorist should travel with, at the very least, a South African road atlas and consider using a GPS navigation system if unfamiliar with the South African highway system. Motorists should have numbers for the South African Automobile Association (AA), which recognizes U.S. AAA membership, or other roadside assistance service phone numbers.  AA and other roadside assistance companies can provide armed response units that will wait with motorists until the vehicle is repaired or towed to a service center. More information can be found at the South Africa AA website at: http://www.aa.co.za/.

Political Violence

Celebrating fifteen years of independence after the end of apartheid, the South African government has taken major steps toward establishing a vibrant democracy and a market-based economy. Despite problems of income inequality and poverty, a severe HIV/AIDS pandemic, violent crime, and political tensions within the African National Congress (ANC), South Africa remains the continent's best prospect for establishing a successful democratic society, and already boasts a robust civil society, dynamic free press, and a rapidly evolving education sector.

The last significant terror campaign occurred in the Western Cape. The Western Cape based group PAGAD (People Against Gangsters and Drugs) conducted an urban terror campaign of bombings, assassinations, and vigilante murders from 1997 to November 2001. These activities targeted South African government facilities and personnel, moderate Muslims identified as threats to the radical Islamic movement, and Western businesses seen by PAGAD as symbols of the anti-Islamic West. The South African government's successful investigation and subsequent prosecution of PAGAD members has been largely credited with the suspension of further violence. No significant anti-Western attacks have occurred in South Africa since 2001.

Though there is no indication that operational cells are present in South Africa, there is evidence that suggests a nexus for recruiting, funding and safe haven for international terrorists does exist.  However, the potential for acts of terror, perpetrated by internationally funded and supported groups, is real.

Civil unrest is a concern in Johannesburg and Pretoria, as both locations have been sites for frequent anti-government protests and demonstrations. Gauteng Province remains the political and economic capital of the country and typically experiences more labor unrest than other provinces. Although unrest can, and does, occur in any area of the country. Labor unions in South Africa carry substantial political clout and can quickly mobilize thousands of people to initiate a protest or demonstration. Typical protests have included the blocking of major thoroughfares between Johannesburg and Pretoria (known as a go slow) by vehicles or grid-locking Johannesburg’s central business district with sheer numbers of protesters. Sectors most often affected include retail, the civil service, the public taxi (or mini-bus) industry, and manufacturing. Although protests are generally peaceful, they do occasionally involve some level of violence which is generally met with non-lethal crowd control measures by SAPS. Protests by the military and minibus taxi industry have typically been judged by the local media to have the most potential for violence.

In addition to being a premier tourist destination, Cape Town is the legislative capital of South Africa, where the National Parliament and many government offices are located. While protests are permitted and tolerated, the South African police are generally quick to deter demonstrations that do not have appropriate municipal approval. Between SAPS and the various metropolitan police departments, security resources are usually adequate to maintain order during demonstrations.

It is strongly recommended that visitors pay attention to local media reports on the location(s) of a proposed demonstration when visiting the area. Protests and demonstrations should be avoided whenever possible.

Post-specific Concerns

Environmental Hazards

Although South Africa's infrastructure is relatively modern, it is does have challenges. Consumer demand, the theft of electrical wire and other needed equipment, and insufficient power generation, all interfere with the government's ability to produce an uninterrupted power supply. Due to the current worldwide economic downturn, consumption of electricity by the South African mining industry has dropped significantly, thereby creating a more readily available energy supply. This steady supply of energy will most likely diminish once mining operations rebound.

During the rainy season, thunderstorms and water damage often disrupt power to alarm systems, traffic lights, and other electronic equipment. Adequate surge protectors should be used to protect office and other electrical equipment.

Industrial and Transportation Accidents

Road hazards are another danger affecting the entire population. Public transportation is to be avoided, as accidents involving multiple fatalities, both on urban and rural roadways, are common.  Avoid use of unlicensed mini-bus taxis. They are frequently in disrepair and the drivers are often unlicensed. Taxi recommendations should be obtained from your hotel and reputable companies telephoned in advance. They should never be hailed on the street. Pick up and drop off at either Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport or Cape Town International Airport should be done using a reputable transfer/shuttle service.

Kidnappings

Historically, Americans in South Africa have not been specifically targeted for kidnap in South Africa.  Nevertheless, there have been a few reported cases over the last two years of American citizens seeking business opportunities in South Africa who were abducted by criminals misrepresenting themselves as legitimate businessmen. Scam artists who purported to be engaged in legitimate business enterprises lured unsuspecting entrepreneurs with promises of lucrative business deals.  Once the victim arrived in South Africa and met his alleged business contact, he was abducted and ransomed for safe return.  These abductions have purely financial motivations and do not specifically target American citizens.  American citizens in South Africa have not been targets of kidnap for political gain.

Drugs and Narco-terrorism

South Africa is both an importer and an exporter of illicit drugs. It is the origin, transit point, and/or destination of many drug trafficking routes. The United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) recently reported that South Africa was the world's third-leading country in terms of cannabis seizures.  While much of the cannabis is cultivated in South Africa, significant quantities are also grown in neighboring countries for export to South Africa. Large seizures of compressed marijuana are frequently made at the O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and are generally destined for the United Kingdom.

Cocaine frequently originating in Brazil, as well as other parts of South America, is regularly seized at the O.R. Tambo International Airport. In the six month period from June to November 2008, over 80 kilograms of cocaine originating from Sao Paulo was seized in 19 different incidents at the airport. Cocaine trafficking in South Africa is mostly controlled by Nigerian syndicates, who have recruiters placed in the country and facilitators throughout South America.  In addition to importing narcotics directly into South Africa, drug trafficking organizations ship drugs into Maputo, Mozambique, and then truck the drugs into South Africa.

Police Response

The South African Police Force  (SAPF), formerly known as the South African Police Service, changed its title and rank structure to that of a military organization.  The SAPF Metropolitan Police Departments are taking steps to increase their operational capacity by augmenting personnel, providing more professional training and accquiring the resources necessary to combat crime and terrorism.  .  . Community policing models found in the United States or Western Europe have been slow to take hold, however SAPF efforts to respond to emergency calls that are serious in nature have improved. Many neighborhoods, especially affluent ones, are now covered by roving reaction units that respond to violent crimes. Secondarily, SAPF attempts to respond to calls of prowlers and other potential crimes in the developmental stage. 

For residential and commercial properties in more affluent neighborhoods, the use of private security companies has become the norm for first response to crimes in progress. These private companies generally have one to two armed officers in response vehicles and can be seen patrolling the neighborhoods throughout the day. 

On occasion, motorists have been informed they can pay a fine directly to the officer after being caught in a speed trap or at a road-worthy checkpoint. If this occurs, the best course of action is to advise the officer to provide a citation and state that the fine will be paid at a police station.

The national police emergency number is: 10-111

Medical Emergencies

The private health care sector in South Africa ranks among the best in the world. U.S. government employees working in Africa are often evacuated to South Africa for medical treatment. The nearest embassies and consulates where individuals will be traveling can provide information regarding medical services specific to that location. Unitas Trauma Hospital in Pretoria is one of the best medical care facilities in South Africa and is designated as a regional evacuation point for trauma patients.

Unitas Trauma Hospital: 27-012-677-8000

Air Ambulance Services

SOS International: 27-011-541-1100

Netcare: 27-011-254-1127

MRI: 27-011-242-0112

Africa Assist: 27-083-300-3927

The nationwide emergency number to call for an ambulance is: 10-177. The police emergency number (10-111) may also be used.

Due to South Africa's high HIV infection rate the U.S. Embassy Medical Unit advises all personnel and visitors to seek immediate medical assistance in the event of a sexual assault or blood-borne injury.

How to Avoid Becoming a Victim

There are no designated off-limit areas in South Africa, although it is strongly recommend that township neighborhoods be avoided, particularly after dark, and unless traveling with an organized tour group or someone who knows the area. Visitors should increase their level of awareness in these areas during daylight, due to high crime rates and spontaneous protests often involving road blocks, burning tires, and demonstrators throwing rocks and other projectiles. Questions or concerns regarding a specific destination can be referred to the Regional Security Officers (see contact details below).

Personal Security Tips

·         First and foremost, be aware of your surroundings. Your vigilance may convince a would-be attacker to find an easier target.

·         Maintain a low profile. Do not flash your cash or wear expensive jewelry. 

·         Do not travel to an area you are not familiar with. Travel in groups, whenever possible and minimize your movements after dark.  

·         If you are in a vehicle, keep the windows up and the doors locked.  Make sure all valuables are out of sight to avoid becoming a victim of smash and grab. When stopped at a red light, leave room between the car you’re in and the car in front of you in case you need to take evasive action.  If you believe you are in danger, leave the area immediately. Stay on main roads and keep to well-lit public areas. If you think you’re being followed, drive to the nearest safe area (police station, U.S. Embassy or Consulate, etc.) 

·         Avoid all forms of public transportation to include mini-van taxis. Rental cars are available or hire a private taxi through the hotel concierge.

·         Travel by vehicle and only walk in controlled areas such as shopping malls or other areas with a security presence. 

·         Only carry as much cash as you’re willing to hand over to a criminal. 

·         Keep photocopies of your passport and other identity documents on your person and keep the originals locked up in the hotel safe.

·         Before entering an establishment, scan the area for any suspicious activity. This will reduce the chances of walking into a robbery in progress.

·         Once inside the establishment, take note of the nearest fire exits or other avenues of escape.

·         Avoid walking/driving near money transport vehicles. They are frequently targeted by well-armed gangs who are not afraid to open fire, even in crowded public areas. If you hear shots fired, get down on the ground! Do not try to investigate or intervene. 

·         If you need to use an ATM, do so from inside a controlled area such as a shopping mall or hotel.  Avoid ATMs located on the street since these are often targeted by criminals who will attempt to “assist” you during your transaction. Criminals are also known to blow up ATMs on a regular basis in South Africa, although generally only occurs during the early morning hours in remote locations.

·         Avoid confrontations with local residents. Many are armed, especially taxi drivers who carry weapons to ward off criminals, and to battle with rival taxi gang members.

·         Credit card fraud is not uncommon in South Africa. Only use credit cards in reputable establishments.  In order to prevent card skimming, you should physically watch your card being swiped.  Check your credit card account for any unauthorized purchases.

·         Drink responsibly – Alcohol intake negatively affects your situational awareness.

·         Finally, should you be confronted by an armed individual - do not resist. Resistance or hesitation on the part of the victim can result in death or serious injury.  Keep your hands visible and follow instructions carefully.  Do not make any abrupt movements that might startle your attacker.  Hand over money or valuables as directed, without hesitation.

Further Information

U.S. Embassy, Pretoria: 27-012-431-4000

RSO Vida Gecas: 27-012-431-4099

Marine Post 1: 27-012-431-4169/4620 (After Hours)

DS_RSO_Pretoria@state.gov

U.S. Consulate General Cape Town: 27-021-702-7300

RSO Thomas Murray

U.S. Consulate General Durban: 27-031-305-7600

RSO Edward Allen

U.S. Consulate General Johannesburg: 27-011-290-3426

RSO Jeff Dee

The Consular information sheet for South Africa, located at the link below, provides

additional information for any traveler to the country:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1008.html. It is also recommended that any traveler register with the U.S. Department of State:

https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/.  

OSAC Country Council

South Africa’s OSAC Country Council is based in Johannesburg. In close coordination with the American Chamber of Commerce, the U.S. Consulate General Johannesburg manages a vibrant and proactive Country Council with over 65 members, to include major U.S. companies in a variety of industries.  The Council meets monthly to discuss issues of crime and security in South Africa. For more information, call 27-011-788-0265.