by Roelien Steenkamp

Created on: April 11, 2010

Safety Precautions for the 2010 Soccer World Cup in South Africa

It is no secret that South Africa is one of the countries with the highest crime and murder rate. How can you, as a tourist, prevent yourself from being a target? Most South African citizens will tell you that they know their criminals all too well and can predict their moves. If you follow these guidelines, you won’t be entirely crime-proof, but it will increase your awareness and maybe even safe your life and those around you thus ensuring that you can make the most of your trip. It is highly recommended that you study and have on you, at all times, the necessary emergency numbers as well as directions to the police stations closest to you. This article is just a basic outline of the situations you can prepare yourself for.

Beware of Police

The popular South African journalism show Carte Blanche unveils many incidents due to citizen complaints, along with camera footage, of how corrupt South African police officers often disrespect the human rights of innocent individuals. Some may ask a bribe (as in the case of a traffic cop), others may even ask you to step out of the vehicle and abuse you verbally and physically, and others, without stating your offence, may throw you into a white van and imprison you for a night (where you might share your space with previously convicted murderers).

The best thing you can do, if a car indicates you to slow down and stop alongside the road, is to slow down and drive to a place less isolated (a garage for example). Always have all your identity and license documents with you as well as a lawyer’s number (whom you call immediately before your phone gets confiscated and you end up in a cell). Always ask for the officer’s badge or identification if the vehicle or his uniform looks suspicious. Know your rights and recite them if you must. Always remain calm and never provoke the officer. Some citizens go as far as to keep a tape recorder for evidence of the conversation if they feel threatened. If at any moment you suspect a scam, contact the local police or emergency number and do not get out of the vehicle until back-up arrives.

Hate crimes

In South Africa there are numerous cases where a criminal does not steal anything in a break-in, but only wounds (if not kills) the owner as an act of hatred and revenge. This is why it is utterly important that you are awake, aware, cautious and prepared at all times! Whether you stay in a rented house,

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