Security Overview for South Africa

South Africa's crime problem is among the worst in the world. The murder rate of 56 per 100,000 population is surpassed only by Colombia and is almost 10 times higher than the U.S. average. Violent and petty crimes occur daily in almost all areas of South Africa. Urban areas, such as Cape Town and Johannesburg, have the highest crime rates. Attacks are more common after dark, when criminals, grab artists and pickpockets from outlying townships prowl downtown streets, often loitering near popular nightspots to target patrons.

During the day, thieves - sometimes well armed with AK-47 assault rifles - also frequent shopping malls. Even when venturing out in groups, remain alert to your surroundings and promptly seek shelter in a safe, crowded place if you sense a possible threat. Do not assist anybody who experiences any problem or difficulty, as criminals often pretend to be in distress to attract victims. Nighttime walks are strongly discouraged. Violent sexual assault is a concern in South Africa. Although travelers are not often targeted, women should never travel alone.

A taxi arranged through your hotel or a private car with driver are the most secure means of travel in South Africa. Foreigners in South Africa should avoid public buses, commuter trains and minibus taxis. Do not drive yourself due to the high rate of carjackings. Be aware of potential "smash and grab" attacks at traffic lights in major cities, or of being "boxed in" at traffic lights for hijack attempts.

Air travel is the safest and most secure means of traveling between cities in South Africa. When visiting game reserves and nature parks, hire a professional guide or travel with a group in a guided tour. If overland travel by vehicle is necessary, limit travel to daylight hours and travel in a convoy.

Large-scale civil unrest and labor strikes are not common in South Africa, but can occur. Labor unrest is common and protests are usually announced in advance. Labor-related unrest will probably become more frequent over the next few years as the government moves forward with economic reform and privatization plans that many jobholders consider a threat. Facing an unemployment rate of 30 percent, South African unions are keenly sensitive to international developments that may lead to job losses in South Africa. Most protests are organized and peaceful, but violence has occurred.

International and domestic terrorism pose a low threat in South Africa. Two anti-Western terrorist groups that were active in South Africa - Qibla and People against Gangsterism and Drugs (PAGAD) - have not carried out bombings or other terrorist activity since 2000. The situation in the Middle East is a concern, as it may provoke terrorist incidents by Islamic extremists and Palestinian sympathizers in South Africa. Anti-U.S. sentiment may worsen if the situation in the Middle East deteriorates.

The government considers the threat from organized crime one of its most pressing problems. Drug trafficking is the main activity for crime rings; well-established drug-smuggling networks easily adapt to smuggling weapons, cars, ivory, currency and gemstones. Organized crime rings also engage in traditional crimes such as burglary and car theft to fund much larger operations. The latter have become a major concern for authorities in recent years. Organized and well-armed crime syndicates target specific neighborhoods, conduct professional information-gathering operations and strike target areas without fear of police during the night, mostly 0200-0400. They enter well-secured homes and do not hesitate to kill in order to rob residents of cellular phones. Keep doors and gates locked at all times and never trust innocent-looking individuals asking for food or a cash donation.Remain aware of your surroundings at all times..

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How we determine a country's overall security rating

Each country's current overall risk rating is determined by considering categorical assessments in kidnapping, crime, security services, civil unrest, terrorism and geopolitical stability.

Minimal Threat

Most countries in this category have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with a low rate of unemployment. These countries have overall low rates of crime. Violent crime is almost non-existent. Petty crimes do occur, but are usually limited to petty theft and pick pocketing. Police and military services are trained and trustworthy, but may lack investigative and crime fighting equipment and skills. Strikes and demonstrations are rare and if they occur are usually well planned and managed and rarely spurn violent incidents. There are no known insurgent or terrorist groups.

Low Threat

Most countries in this category will have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with some unemployment. These countries have low crime rates. Violent crimes are rare and usually involve associated persons. Petty crimes such as theft and pick pocketing are a concern and travelers may be directly targeted. Risks can usually be mitigated with simple security measures. Police and military services are well trained and trustworthy but may lack adequate investigative equipment. Incidents of civil unrest such as strikes and demonstrations may disrupt daily life, but are usually non-violent and well coordinated. These countries may experience rare instances of domestic terrorist activity but are not threatened by international terrorism. Anti-government groups may be present but have little or no impact.

Moderate Threat

Most countries in this category will have a somewhat stable political infrastructure and economic system but unemployment and rising inflation cause some instability. These countries have moderate levels of crime. Violent crimes such as sexual assault and murder occur, but few are random incidents. Petty crimes, especially theft or destruction of unattended property, are common. Incidents of armed assault also occur. More threatening crimes are usually limited to urban areas or certain parts of the country. Police and military services may suffer from corruption and lack of training, but are generally adequate for investigations. Strikes and demonstrations can disrupt daily life and may easily spur violence. This country may have a variety of anti-government and domestic terrorist groups that are organized and outspoken against the government and may conduct incidents of violence. Small cells of international terrorist organizations exist but incidents of terrorism are not common.

High Threat

Most countries in the category have unstable political infrastructure and economic system with high rates of unemployment and inflation. Violent and petty crimes are common in most areas and random acts of violence do occur. Some areas may have a general state of lawlessness. Traveling alone, especially at night, should be avoided. There will be a large infiltration of arms in the population. Police and military services lack training and equipment. Both institutions are prone to corruption. Strikes and demonstrations are common and usually violent. Domestic terrorist and insurgent groups are active and well organized. They conduct bombings and other violent acts against government, local and international interests. International terrorist groups exist and may conduct activities within the country and abroad. The country may be involved in cross border warfare.

Extreme Threat

Most countries in this category lack a political infrastructure with any democratic premise and have a high rate of corruption. The economy is unstable with a high rate of unemployment. There is a very high rate of violent and petty crime. A general state of lawlessness exists in most urban and remote areas. Overland travel through the country must be avoided. Many domestic terrorist or rebel groups exist and are frequently active; areas of the country may be controlled by rebel factions. International terrorist operations may be well organized and active. Anti- government actions and large demonstrations are common and violent. Cross border and internal warfare occur.