The U.S. Embassy in Gaborone, Botswana has received updated information on criminal activities targeting shopping complexes and residences in Gaborone. U.S. citizens are encouraged to be vigilant and take precautions to ensure their safety and security.
The Embassy has received information that there are groups of criminals operating at shopping complexes in Gaborone, particularly at the Game City shopping center. They are working together in teams to target individuals and rob them. One or two members of the gang will distract the targeted person, while another will then grab the valuables. Reports indicate that the criminals have been non-violent, but they will resort to violence if necessary.
The Embassy has also received reports of individuals attempting to gain entrance into residences or gain information about the occupants and security systems by posing as government or security guard company representatives. If you are unsure about the legitimacy of the individuals at your gate, do not let them in.
Security Suggestions from the Embassy Regional Security Office:
When visiting crowded shopping areas in Gaborone, please remember the following principles:
• Be aware at all times of who is around you. As you walk and shop, stop periodically and look behind you.
• Do not advertise valuables, including phones, iPods, and jewelry.
• Backpacks and purses should be zipped up and carried securely in the front of the body.
• Wallets and other valuables should be carried in front or side cargo pockets, and not in the rear pockets.
• Keep some small bills in external pockets to pay for items to avoid displaying the contents of your wallet to everyone in the checkout queue.
What to do if you are a victim?
• If you are robbed, remain calm, and call the police on 999 from a secure area to report the incident.
• If robbed, do not try to confront or apprehend the assailants.
• For after-hours emergency assistance from the U.S. Embassy, contact the Embassy at 395-7111.