Namibia 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

Namibia 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

This is an annual report produced in conjunction with the Regional Security Office at the U.S. Embassy in
Windhoek. OSAC encourages travelers to use this report to gain baseline knowledge of security conditions
in Namibia. For more in-depth information, review OSAC’s Namibia country page for original OSAC
reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-
sector representatives with an OSAC password.

Travel Advisory

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses
Namibia at Level 1, indicating travelers should exercise normal precautions. Review OSAC’s report,
Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

Crime Threats

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Windhoek as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime
directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Crime has been rising over the last five
years. U.S. citizens have regularly fallen victim to street crime. The most common incidents are non-
violent crimes of opportunity (e.g. pickpocketing, purse or backpack snatching, theft of cellphones,
theft/scams near ATMs, vehicle break-ins), committed by thieves who rely on stealth, surprise, or
opportunity. Pickpocketing and purse-snatching are most likely to take place in downtown shopping areas
and other high-traffic locations where foreign visitors congregate.

While incidents generally occur more frequently after dark and increase slightly on the weekends, thefts
also occur during daylight hours. Avoid walking alone at night in the downtown areas, lower socio-
economic/informal settlement areas, public parks, and other desolate or poorly illuminated areas.
Additionally, criminals frequently target people walking the streets alone, especially after normal business
hours or after dark, with purses, bags, or backpacks; they can easily resell electronics such as laptops,
tablets, and smartphones on the black market. Criminals have recently brandished knives during
robberies in Swakopmund and in Windhoek. Occasionally, criminals also use firearms to commit crimes.
In most cases, assailants leave the victim unharmed after receiving cash and/or a cellular phone. Review
OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind.

Theft from motor vehicles remains a concern. These types of crimes usually involve smash-and-grabs, and
are sometimes associated with violence. They can occur when the vehicle is unattended or stopped in
traffic at busy intersections. In the latter case, thieves often attempt to distract the driver by asking
questions, begging for money, or knocking on the driver’s side door. Meanwhile, an accomplice on the
passenger side attempts to unlock a door or break a window to steal anything of value. This most
commonly occurs in the downtown areas of Windhoek. Criminals use remote key fobs to unlock vehicle
doors; jamming key fob devices in public parking lots is common. Manually double-check your vehicle
doors to ensure the fob signal worked appropriately and, critically, do not leave anything visible inside the
vehicle that would tempt a crime of opportunity. The Namibian Police have issued a warning to motorists
not to stop for any vehicles that appear to have run out of fuel or are experiencing mechanical issues
along deserted roads. Criminals pretending to have mechanical or fuel problems have ambushed
unsuspecting tourists.

Namibia 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

Residential break-ins remain prevalent, and armed robberies continue to occur. Criminals generally target
unoccupied residences; however, home invasions resulting in violence do occur when criminals encounter
residents. This type of crime increases in frequency during the December-January holiday season and
during Easter week, when many people are away from home. Review OSAC’s reports, Hotels: The Inns
and Outs and Considerations for Hotel Security.

Most businesses in Namibia accept major credit cards; credit card skimming and cloning do occur.
ATMs are prevalent, and ATM card cloning also occurs. The rates of credit card and ATM fraud are
comparable to that of the U.S. Report any theft/loss to your financial institution immediately. Use ATMs
in public, illuminated areas and that have a uniformed security guard presence. Review OSAC’s reports,
The Overseas Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud and Taking Credit.

Cybersecurity Issues

Namibia has a growing communications network with reliable internet and data services. Reports of cyber
scams and cybersecurity issues are rare. Most cyber scams proceed via SMS due to the large proportion of
Namibians who own cellular phones. Most such scams involve phishing messages purporting to be from
a bank or other reputable organization. The SMS asks the user to click on a link or send personal
information. Make a habit of checking bank statements and online banking transaction history regularly to
identify any irregularities.

Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi,
Traveling with Mobile Devices: Trends & Best Practices, and Satellite Phones: Critical or Contraband?

Transportation-Safety Situation

Road Safety and Road Conditions

Driving can be hazardous. Although major roads are generally in good condition, Namibia’s network of
gravel secondary roads can be dangerous, with flooding possible during the rainy season. Drive
defensively on all roads to compensate for road conditions and the excessive speed and reckless passing
tactics many Namibian drivers use. Driving at night outside urban areas is dangerous, as darkness makes it
difficult to see road obstructions and animals. Those planning to drive outside Windhoek should plan to
arrive at their destination before dark, especially in desert areas or via the Trans-Caprivi Highway between
Rundu and Katima Mulilo. Vehicles should be in good condition and appropriately equipped (e.g. spare
tire, jack).

Road accidents remain a major concern despite relatively good road infrastructure and good road
conditions. Road accidents are one of the most common causes of fatality in Namibia. Traffic fatalities
among foreign visitors occur regularly. In urban areas, taxis often stop abruptly to pick up/discharge
passengers, resulting in frequent rear-end collisions. Visitors involved in a motor vehicle accident should
report to a police station within 24 hours of the accident if police were not at the accident scene, and to
the insurance company / car rental agency the next business day.

Namibia 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

Traffic moves on the left, so it is essential to look right before crossing the street on foot or pulling onto a
road in a vehicle. Drunk drivers are a major concern. In addition, auto accident victims are vulnerable to
theft by those pretending to be helpful. As there are very few sidewalks or pedestrian crossings; be
extremely cautious when walking, jogging, or biking.

Police checkpoints are positioned approximately 15 kilometers outside the principal cities and towns on
all major highways. During the holiday season, police may establish additional checkpoints along the B2
Windhoek-Swakopmund highway and near medium-sized towns. Most vehicles may proceed without
inspection, but drivers should prepare to produce vehicle registration documents, personal identification,
car rental contracts, and/or licenses on request. All drivers should plan to stop and proceed only when
waved through.

When overtaken by an official motorcade, pull to the side of the road as far as possible and promptly
follow instructions given by the officials present.

Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving
Techniques; and read the State Department’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.

Public Transportation Conditions

Public transportation is not widely available outside the capital. Taxis and municipal buses are the only
forms of public transportation in Windhoek. Schedules and routes are limited. Violent assaults on taxi
passengers are common; petty theft is prevalent and occurs on trains, buses, and in taxis.

Taxi drivers routinely ignore traffic laws (including signage), and often possess poor driving skills. These
taxis are usually marked with a large letter and identifying numbers on the driver’s side door and rear
window. Many taxis are in poor mechanical condition, with worn tires and broken and/or missing
lights. Do not allow your taxi driver to pick up multiple passengers. There have been reports of additional
passengers working in tandem with taxi drivers to rob passengers.

Taxis found at the major hotels or reserved via phone (“radio taxis”), and reserved shuttle services tend
to be more reliable, and will not pick up additional passengers. Review OSAC’s report, Security In Transit:
Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.

Aviation/Airport Conditions

As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Namibia, the U.S.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Namibia’s Civil Aviation
Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards.

Namibia 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

Terrorism Threat

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Windhoek as being a LOW-threat location for terrorism
directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. The Namibian government is sensitive to the
threat of terrorism, and engages with international partners to combat terrorism. Any large public
gathering could become an attractive target for terrorists. Transnational terrorism is a concern
throughout Africa, as increased law enforcement and anti-terrorism activities in the Horn of Africa have
the potential to force terrorist organizations to seek targets in areas outside their traditional sphere of
operations.

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Windhoek as being a LOW-threat location for political violence
directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Public demonstrations are rare and are almost
always non-violent. Most local protests in 2019 involved labor issues such as working conditions
and wages. Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment

Bilateral relations between Namibia and the U.S. are positive. Small-scale demonstrations to protest U.S.
foreign policy have occurred near the Embassy, but they were non-violent. Police support during the few
demonstrations has been very good.

Post-specific Concerns

Environmental Hazards

Namibia is an arid, semi-desert country of over 318,000 square miles, and is the second-least densely
populated country in the world. It can experience extreme temperatures, especially during the summer
(November-February), and seasonal flooding during the rainy season (October-March) in the central and
northern regions. Dry riverbeds occasionally flood, resulting in roads being inaccessible. Motorists should
be alert to warning signs posted at riverbeds and not cross them when water is flowing.

Namibia has a long coastline of mostly uninhabited beaches. The seawater is frigid, and the current is very
strong. Trained lifeguards and other rescue personnel are rare. Use caution when swimming. Ocean
drownings are not uncommon, even in populated areas such as Swakopmund.

The poaching of endangered wildlife species occurs in Namibia. Visitors in national parks or game lodges
should follow instructions from game wardens and law enforcement officials patrolling those areas.
Poachers generally carry large-caliber weapons. Shoot-outs between law enforcement officials and
poachers sometimes result in serious injury or death.

At wild animal parks, heed all instructions given by guides or trackers. Use common sense and maintain a
safe distance when approaching wildlife. Even in the most serene settings wild animals pose a lethal
threat. Lions, leopards, elephants, oryxes, rhinos, hippos, and crocodiles have critically injured and killed
individuals in the region.

Namibia 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

Baboons live throughout Namibia and commonly scavenge the belongings of travelers. Baboons in
camping areas are quite bold in approaching and taking items that interest them. Keep your belongings
and food in secure containers.

Climbing areas, 4X4 trails, hiking trails, and rivers are unpredictable and dangerous. They are often located
in isolated areas without access to communications and away from any medical assistance. Dozens of
people, including U.S. citizens, have been injured or drowned.

Critical Infrastructure Concerns

Namibia has extensive open territory between cities and towns. Fuel stations and vehicle repair facilities
can be hundreds of miles apart. Bring extra fuel for long-distance travel. Most major roads have cellular
phone coverage, but more remote areas, secondary roads, and even stretches of primary roads do not.

Economic Espionage/Intellectual Property Theft

Diamond and precious stone scams are prevalent despite government licensing and other controls. Those
seeking to purchase precious stones should use reputable dealers.

Thoroughly research any unsolicited business proposal before committing any funds, providing any goods
or services, or undertaking any travel. It is virtually impossible to recover money lost through scams.

Personal Identity Concerns

Same-sex sexual activity between men is illegal in Namibia; however, authorities have never charged
anyone with breaking the law. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is common, and many
Namibians consider all same-sex sexual activity taboo. The law does not protect the LGBTI+ community
from discrimination. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for LGBTI+ travelers.

Only a small fraction of rape cases are prosecuted and fewer still result in conviction. Gender-based
Violence Protection Units intervene in cases of domestic violence, which is widespread. Units are staffed
with police officers, social workers, legal advisors, and medical personnel trained to assist victims of sexual
assault. A privately run shelter operates in the Khomas region and there are government shelters in other
regions. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for female travelers.

Review OSAC’s report, Freedom to Practice, and the State Department’s webpage on security for faith-
based travelers.

Persons with disabilities face limited access to transportation, public buildings, hotels, and communication
accommodations. There are few sidewalks and no curb-cuts, and most buildings lack elevators. Review
the State Department’s webpage on security for travelers with disabilities.

Namibia 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

Drug-related Crime

Namibia is not a drug-producing country; it is a drug transit route. Most drugs available locally arrive via
smugglers. The most popular drug is marijuana (dagga), which is relatively cheap. Other drugs (e.g.
cocaine, crack, heroin, mandrax) are also available. The use of cheap, readily available crystal meth (tik) is
also on the rise. Authorities strictly enforce anti-drug laws, and grant no bail without a court appearance.

Other Issues

It is illegal to take pictures of government buildings, military installations, and key infrastructure, such as
ports, train stations, airports, and along border areas. Authorities could fine you, confiscate your
photographic equipment, or detain or arrest you. Do not take photos of people without their permission.
Review OSAC’s report, Picture This: Dos and Don’ts for Photography.

Unlicensed purchase of or trading in endangered wildlife parts, such as ivory and rhino horn, is illegal and
carries severe penalties including fines up to US $1.1 million and 15 years in prison. It is illegal to kill or
capture any protected wild animals without appropriate permits. The Namibian government is in the
process of dramatically increasing sentences for persons convicted of poaching and trafficking in wildlife
parts. Read the State Department’s webpage on customs and import restrictions for information on what
you cannot take into or out of other countries.

Police Response

The emergency line in Namibia is 10111. Call any of the following numbers outside of the capital:

        Location                       POLICE                                      FIRE

       Windhoek                  10111/2094111/2902239                                                211111

     Swakopmund               064-10111/415000/415060                           064-410-4639/0811285613

       Mariental              063-10111/345000/345016                             063-245-600/0812528152

        Luderitz                       063-10111/202255                                         063-202-255

        Gobabis               062-10111/566100/566129                           062-566-666/081-12-44936

        Tsumeb                        067-10111/2235017                         067-22-1004/081-12-48677

         Rundu                         066-10111/266300                                        081-257-5743

        Oshakati                       065-10111/223600           065-229-500/081-29-63300/0811448222

      Otjiwarongo                      067-10111/300600                            067-307025/0812629099

     Katima Mulilo                     066-10111/251225                            066-252983/0813292614

Namibia 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

The major law enforcement agency is the Namibian Police (NamPol). Other law enforcement entities
include Immigration, Customs, and the Anti-Corruption Commission (responsible for investigating and
prosecuting official corruption cases).

NamPol operates a Tourist Protection Unit (TPU) specifically to assist tourists who have become victims
of crime. The TPU in Windhoek is located at the corner of Independence Avenue and Bahnhof Street.

Law enforcement officers must produce credentials and identify themselves before conducting a lawful
arrest. Whenever an arrest is imminent, comply with the arresting officer’s request. Do not challenge the
authority of police or soldiers. An arrested person has the right to contact his/her family or legal
representative.

Report incidents of police harassment to any police station, the office of the Inspector-General of Police,
or the Office of the Ombudsman in Windhoek.

Download the State Department’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.

In case of an emergency, contact the local police in your area.

Medical Emergencies

Medical facilities in the capital and in large towns are capable of providing emergency care and performing
many routine procedures. Doctors and dentists are generally well-trained. Well-equipped facilities are
rarely available in smaller towns. Find contact information for available medical services and available air
ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website.

Carry prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Be sure to verify with
the Namibian Ministry of Foreign Affairs that your medications are legal before you travel. Review OSAC’s
report, Traveling with Medication.

The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before
traveling internationally. Review the State Department’s webpage on insurance overseas.

Malaria transmission occurs in the Northern (Omusati, Oshana, Ohangwena, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa, east
and west Kavango, Zambezi, and portions of Kunene) and Eastern (portions of Omaheke) regions of
Namibia. The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Namibia.

Review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, I’m Drinking What in My Water?, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol
Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad.

OSAC Country Council Information

Windhoek has an active Country Council. To reach OSAC’s Africa team, email OSACAF@state.gov.

Namibia 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

U.S. Embassy Contact Information

14 Lossen Street, Ausspannplatz, Windhoek
Monday-Thursday: 0800-1700, Friday: 0800-1200
Embassy Switchboard: +264-61-295-8500
American Citizen Services (after Hours): +264-85-686-0853
Website: http://na.usembassy.gov

Helpful Information

Before you travel, consider the following resources:

    •   OSAC Risk Matrix
    •   OSAC Travelers Toolkit
    •   State Department Traveler’s Checklist
    •   Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)