Warden Message
Increase of Robberies in Lusaka/Holiday Security
13 December 2010
Recently, there has been a substantial increase in the number of robberies committed in the Lusaka area against people in vehicles during daylight hours. Additionally, there has been increased criminal activity in Lusaka neighborhoods where many expatriates live and shop, including Woodlands (Pick and Pay store), Kabulonga (Melissa store), and Manda Hill Mall. Criminals have used assault rifles as a form of intimidation and, in one instance, actually fired shots.
The Embassy would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the following:
· Drive with your windows up and doors locked.
· If someone, either on foot or in another vehicle, attempts to get you to stop, either by hand motioning or attempting to use their vehicle to slow you down or block your path, get away from the situation. Always ensure that you have sufficient distance from surrounding cars so that you can get away.
· If you believe you are being pursued, immediately proceed to the closest police station or public area, such as a hotel. DO NOT proceed to your residence; the person could be attempting to find out where you live.
The key is not to isolate yourself in a remote area. While it is helpful to law enforcement if you are able to get the license plate number of the assailant’s vehicle, the priority should be on getting away from the situation.
Holiday Security:
In general, the holiday period can see increased criminal activity in public areas and at residences. The Embassy recommends the following precautions:
· Don’t try to do all of your holiday shopping at once. The more shopping bags you carry or pack into your car, the more inviting a target you make yourself.
· Be cautious of persons representing themselves as collectors for charity. This may be used as a ruse to gain access to your house, for actual crime or criminal surveillance of your property.
· Maintain a good grip on all bags, parcels and personal items while shopping or walking in public. Keep purses and bags closed, unless accessing them. Do not leave purses unattended in carts, in the store or in the parking lot.
· Do not leave items in plain view in your unattended vehicle. Place items or valuables in the trunk or in the rear of the vehicle out of sight.
· Most importantly, maintain good awareness of your surroundings. Listen to your instincts, if they tell you something is awry, get away from the situation!
The Embassy wishes you and your family safe, peaceful, and joyful holidays.
U.S. citizens living in or traveling to Zambia are encouraged to enroll with the U.S. Embassy's Consular Section through the State Department's new Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and to review also the Embassy's Internet website for the latest travel and security information relating to Zambia. U.S. citizens without Internet access may register directly at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. When you provide us this information, we will be able to contact you in the event of an emergency.
U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy’s website and the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information can be found. The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad" which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.
Corner of United Nations and Independence Avenues
Telephone: +260-211-250-955 x2234
Emergency after-hours telephone: +260-211-250-955
