Alert: Security Around U.S. Consulate General Cape Town
Location: Tokai, Cape Town, South Africa
Event: There has been a continuation of muggings – including with knives and firearms during the middle of the day – along Reddam Avenue between the Consulate and the Steenberg Village shopping area.
Actions to Take: Maintain situational awareness and vigilance in and around the Steenberg Village shopping area and when traveling between the Consulate and the shopping area. The Consulate has highly recommended that all personnel use a vehicle to travel between Steenberg Village and our Consulate General. Walking is not encouraged, however, when walking on Reddam Avenue, it is best to walk on the west sidewalk (same side as the Consulate General) in a group and to take precautions to make yourself a harder target for criminals, including:
– Walk with your eyes up and your hands-free.
– Keep your phones and other valuable secure and out of sight.
– Avoid carrying lots of bags or other items that may be easy to grab from you or make you more of a target or harder to protect yourself if attacked.
Most importantly, if a criminal assailant approaches you, please Comply, Observe, and Report. Attempts to fight back often result in more severe harm to the victim. The Consulate also reminds visitors to stay vigilant in public by remaining aware of surroundings and people and to avoid displaying obvious signs of affluence (jewelry, shows of cash, expensive accessories like handbags and cases, phones, etc.).
If you encounter a crime in progress, move away from the area immediately, head towards a safe location, and call the police (call: 10-111). When you do, please state clearly who you are, where you are, and what incident/situation has occurred. Leave the area immediately if you feel unsafe at any time.
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