US issues travel alert for South Africa World Cup

May 29, 2010 - PRLog -- The State Department alert said that there was no specific information on any credible threat during the tournament, but noted that such threats have been reported in the media. “Large scale public events like the World Cup may present a wide range of attractive targets for terrorists. There is a heightened risk that extremist groups will conduct terrorist acts within South Africa in the near future”, the US Government alert said.

The alert issued on Tuesday, urged all U.S. citizens to register with the embassy in South Africa so that they could get immediate updated security information. The alert advised Americans to be aware of their surroundings, warned them that the crime rate is very high in South Africa, urging visitors not to wear expensive jewelry and to ensure valuables were not in plain view.

“While driving, keep doors locked and windows closed and avoid having purses, phones, bags and luggage in plain view. When stopping at intersections at night or in isolated locations leave enough space in front of your vehicle for a quick exit and be wary of street vendors at traffic lights, planted obstacles and staged accidents, that may be traps for unsuspecting motorists”.

This is good advice for visitors of all countries, not only for Americans. Even though South Africa has mobilized thousands of specially trained police to deal with safety during the 2010 World Cup, it is never too late to remind fans that South Africa does have one of the highest crime rates in the world.

Other good advice:

•   Do not stop for cars with flashing lights.
•   Park your car in secure, gated parking lots or garages.
•   Do not leave bags or valuables in plain view.
•   Avoid displaying cell phones or wearing eye-catching jewelry.
•   Stay in a group, and avoid walking at night.
•   Keep a photocopy of your passport with you, leaving the original in a hotel safe or other secure location.
•   Lost or stolen passports should be reported to the local police or nearest Consulate.

Some 250,000 people are expected to visit South Africa for the 2010 World Cup, which is being held in Africa for the first time and starts on 11 June and ends July 11.

You can read the full U.S. State Department travel alert warning in PDF at: http://2010-southafrica.com/latest-news/us-issues-travel-...

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