Haiti

Violent crime is common, including against tourists and expats. Incidents include:

Your risk increases at night and in isolated areas.

Police have very limited resources to respond and help.

Hotspots for violent crime include:

• Port-au-Prince

• outside Toussaint Louverture International Airport

• Route Nationale 2, between Petit-Goave in Ouest and Miragoane in Nippes

• Bel Air

• Carrefour

• Cité Soleil

• Martissant 

Thieves target travellers who have just arrived. They may try to distract you to steal your passport and valuables.

Criminal gangs have roadblocked areas around Port-au-Prince, and on national highways, to steal from car passengers.

To protect yourself from crime:

• be alert to your surroundings and extremely cautious
• don’t go out after dark
• travel with someone who speaks Kreyòl
• avoid showing signs of wealth
• have someone meet you at the airport, or pre-book your airport transfers
• be careful sharing your travel plans
• keep your vehicle windows up and doors locked, even when moving
• if you’re attacked or robbed, don’t resist. Criminals are often armed and you can be seriously injured or killed.

If you’re a victim of violent crime, especially sexual assault, get immediate medical help. The risk of HIV/AIDS infection is high.

Kidnapping

Foreign-aid workers have been targets of kidnapping for ransom and other violent crimes.

Some kidnapping victims have disappeared or been killed.

Be careful in the waters around Haiti. You risk piracy and assault in these areas. 

The Australian Government’s longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

Other crime

People leaving banks are targets for thieves on motorcycles. Avoid withdrawing or carrying large amounts of money.

Public transport is unsafe. Avoid:

Ask your host or hotel to arrange private transport for you.

Be careful dealing with strangers or people you’ve just met. Be wary of people hanging around near your hotel.

Photography can look suspicious, especially in remote areas. Some travellers have been assaulted for taking photos. Ask for permission before you take someone’s photograph.

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