The Gambia
Petty crime
Theft can occur, including from your hotel room or vehicle.
Pickpockets operate:
- in crowded market areas
- on ferries
- along tourist beaches
Tourists have been mugged at night while walking alone on beaches.
Scams and fraud
Be aware of young men known as ‘bumsters’. They approach tourists, particularly on beaches.
They might offer to:
- help as a local guide
- sell you things
- simply have a conversation
Bumsters often use romance to get money or other help from you. They may also try to leave the country through marriage to a Westerner.
Politely decline offers, advances or attempts at conversation from bumsters. Take care not to offend.
To prevent crime:
- avoid being outside alone at night, especially on beaches
- keep car windows up and doors locked
- lock your accommodation, even when you’re in it
- keep your credit card in sight when buying things
Internet scams
Internet scams come in many forms, including romance, friendship, business and job offers. These scams often originate in West African countries.
Scam victims often lose money.
To protect yourself from scams:
- be wary of online contact from people you don’t know
- don’t send money to anyone until you’ve thoroughly checked them
If you suspect a scam, get legal advice.
Don’t travel to The Gambia to get your money back or to get revenge. You could be in danger.
If you’re travelling to The Gambia , your family and friends may receive bogus phone calls and emails from The Gambia. Scammers may claim that you’re in legal, financial or medical trouble and that you need money.
To protect your family and friends from scammers:
- be careful about giving out personal information or disposing of personal documents while in The Gambia
- tell friends and family to contact you directly if they receive any emails about you
If friends and family can’t contact you directly, they should contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre.
Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government