Scam in EritreaTheft
Armed robbery in high-risk areas in Eritrea
How it works
Armed robbery is a serious risk in these areas. No specific approach or theft method is described, and the frequency is unclear.
Warning signs
- You are travelling in one of the named high-risk towns or close to a border.
How to avoid it
- Avoid Teseney, Barentu and Assab.
- Avoid travel within 25 km of the borders.
- Do not treat Asmara's low street-crime risk as a guide to border safety.
If it happens to you
Do not resist an armed attacker. Avoid sudden movements. Reach safety before reporting the robbery or arranging medical help.
- Get to safety. Leave the confrontation if you can. Do not chase a thief or resist an armed attacker.
- Record what happened while you remember it. Note the time, place, amount lost and any useful descriptions.
- Save receipts, messages and booking details. Gather evidence only when it is safe.
- Contact your card issuer immediately if a card or its details were taken. Block affected cards and secure any exposed accounts.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to the police. Ask for a written report or reference if available.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen, you are detained or you need help finding legal assistance. Seek medical care for injuries.
Questions
What is the armed robbery in high-risk areas scam in Eritrea?
Armed robbery is a serious risk in these areas. No specific approach or theft method is described, and the frequency is unclear.
How can I spot it early?
You are travelling in one of the named high-risk towns or close to a border.
How do I avoid armed robbery in high-risk areas in Eritrea?
Avoid Teseney, Barentu and Assab. Avoid travel within 25 km of the borders. Do not treat Asmara's low street-crime risk as a guide to border safety.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not resist an armed attacker. Avoid sudden movements. Reach safety before reporting the robbery or arranging medical help.
Where in Eritrea does this happen?
Teseney, Barentu, Assab and areas within 25 km of Eritrea's borders It has been reported in Teseney, Barentu, Assab.
How common is this scam in Eritrea?
Occasional. Tourist hustling appears uncommon in Eritrea, especially in Asmara. Watch for unofficial currency exchange offers and dubious money deals; aggressive begging can also occur. Armed robbery is a serious concern near borders and in Teseney, Barentu and Assab.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery, threats or fraud when you are safe. Give a clear account and provide any evidence. Ask for a written report or reference if available. Your bank or card issuer: use the issuer's official app or verified contact details to block a stolen card and report unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport, detention or finding local legal assistance.
Reviewed by @snuck