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Crime can occur in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but there are things you can do to minimize the risk and stay safe. Here are our tips to avoid trouble.
Photo © Getty Images/Fabian Plock / EyeEm
Crime is a way of life in the DRC. With most normal facets of life collapsing on a regular basis, many people have turned to crime.
Travelers need to pay close attention when they are entering the country and when moving across DRC's enormous interior.
Coupled with the constant security instability, crime in the Congo is out of control, a perfect example of a failed state in the heart of Africa.
So, get ready to grow eyes in the back of your head. This is what you need to know about personal safety in the DRC.
Hotspots for crime
Kinshasa remains a critical crime threat area, and foreign citizens continue to be the victims of serious crime, including armed robbery.
This sort of violent crime happens at all hours of the day, so don't think daylight will save you.
Most of this violent crime is perpetrated by groups posing as police in both rural and urban areas. So prepare yourself and be smart.
Travel in many sections of Kinshasa, Kisangani, Lubumbashi and most other major cities is generally safe during daylight hours, but travelers are urged to be vigilant against criminal activity that targets non-Congolese, particularly in traffic jams and areas surrounding hotels and stores.
Outlying, remote areas are less secure because of high levels of criminal activity and the lack of adequate training, supervision, and salary for security forces.
What to watch out for
So you want to still go to the DRC for a trip? Here are some tips:
- Avoid walking alone, displaying cash or other personal items of value in public
- Avoid taking photos in public, especially of the river, government buildings and the airport, which are viewed as places of national security, since doing such may lead to arrest
- In the DRC, deteriorating economic conditions continue to foster crime, especially in urban areas. So avoid areas considered risky by locals, they warn you for a reason
- Don't trust anyone offering you help on the spot. It;s a sad part of traveling through the Congo, but it will keep you safe.
What to prepare for
Below are some common crimes you may experience in the Congo, most are violent and not what travelers want.
Security officials and individuals purporting to be security officials have detained and robbed foreigners in Kinshasa. This type of crime occurs more frequently during the Christmas and New Year's holidays and prior to the beginning of school years.
Vehicle thefts, burglaries, and armed robberies occur throughout the country; there have been reports of car-jackings in the North Kivu area, resulting in deaths.
If confronted by members of the military or security forces, visitors should not permit soldiers or police officers to enter their vehicles nor get into the vehicle of anyone purporting to be a security official. If confronted, remain courteous and calm and, if threatened, do not resist.
Street children, particularly in Kinshasa, can be aggressive, persistent and involved in criminal activity.
Kidnapping is also a real threat in the Congo. Well-planned attacks against foreign nationals, so watch your step.
Big tip
Try to always move with an experienced tour group. They will help you avoid problems and keep you safe. In the Congo, that's what you want.
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