Tanzania

Violent armed robbery, petty theft and threats of violence are common in Tanzania, especially in Dar es Salaam.

Sexual assaults of travellers happen. HIV/AIDS is widespread in Tanzania. If you’re a victim of rape or violent crime, seek immediate medical attention.

Criminals in Dar es Salaam are becoming bolder and crime is more common. There are regular reports of crime along the Toure Drive on the Msasani Peninsula, especially bag snatching from moving vehicles.

Serious injury and death after resisting bag snatching is on the rise. Victims have been dragged behind vehicles. Don’t try to stop bag snatch attempts.

Take extra care in and around Arusha in northern Tanzania. Armed robberies, carjackings and home invasions have happened.

Don’t accept food or drink from strangers — it may be spiked.

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• take care on public transport, in shared taxis and at bus stations
• take care at places frequented by travellers, including national parks and beaches
• avoid walking and travelling after dark

Thieves target travellers in isolated and coastal areas. ​

‘Express kidnapping‘ occurs. Kidnappers abduct people and force them to withdraw funds from ATMs before releasing them. This can happen after being befriended by strangers or while using unlicensed taxis. Only use registered taxis.

If you’re stopped by police, ask to see their ID, especially before paying fines.

Border areas

There’s a breakdown of law and order around the provinces of Kigoma and Kagera. There are bandits in this area. They are also near borders with Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The US Embassy and the United Nations recommend that you use police escorts on parts of the Rusomo to Kahama Road near the border with Rwanda. There’s a threat of armed attacks.

Armed bandits have been reported around Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti and Arusha National Parks. Pay attention to your personal security when visiting national parks, game parks and reserves.

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government