South Africa 'smash and grab' attacks prompt Foreign Office warning
James ChappleBritish travellers in South Africa have been warned to be vigilant to potential "smash and grab" attacks, especially on vehicles.
In an update to its travel advice, the Foreign Office highlighted "less secure" areas around several major international airports – such as Johannesburg and Cape Town – as places to be particularly watchful.
The new advice, issued on Friday (10 November), does though state that the risk of violent crime to visitors in South Africa’s main tourist cities remains "generally low". It added there is typically always additional security personnel in major tourist areas.
On the topic of violent crime, the update makes specific reference to "smash and grab attacks on vehicles" as well as new information on "the less secure areas around international airports in Johannesburg and Cape Town".
"Violent crime can take place anywhere, including in tourist destinations and transport hubs," said the FCDO. "Most violent crimes occur in townships on the outskirts of major cities or in isolated areas. The threat is higher in central business districts of major cities than in suburban areas, and increases after dark."
It calls for particular vigilance when leaving airports by car, and cautions against following instruction from GPS devices that plot alternative routes avoiding major roads.
Travellers heading to or from Cape Town International airport are advised specifically to stick to the M3 and M2 roads where possible, and avoid the R300 and R310 (Baden Powell) between Muizenberg and the N2 intersection.
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