
Scam in Solomon IslandsTheft
Mugging and theft of valuables in Solomon Islands
How it works
Muggers target tourists and take their belongings. Attacks at the Japanese War Memorial can happen during daylight. The frequency of these attacks is unclear.
Warning signs
- Your journey will take place after dark, especially in Honiara.
- You are visiting the Japanese War Memorial on Mt Austin, where tourists have been targeted even during daylight.
How to avoid it
- Avoid travelling after dark.
- Ask your accommodation about current safety conditions before visiting the memorial.
- Keep valuables out of sight and carry only what you need.
- Avoid visiting the memorial alone.
If it happens to you
Do not fight over belongings. Move to a safe place when you can, seek help and report the attack to police. Get medical care if you are injured.
- Get to a safe place. Do not chase a thief or fight over belongings.
- Seek medical help if you are injured or have been threatened with violence.
- Contact your card issuer immediately if a card or banking details were stolen. Block affected cards.
- Write down the time, location and what happened. Save receipts, messages and any other evidence.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a report reference or written record for your insurer.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement advice.
Questions
What is the mugging and theft of valuables scam in Solomon Islands?
Muggers target tourists and take their belongings. Attacks at the Japanese War Memorial can happen during daylight. The frequency of these attacks is unclear.
How can I spot it early?
Your journey will take place after dark, especially in Honiara. You are visiting the Japanese War Memorial on Mt Austin, where tourists have been targeted even during daylight.
How do I avoid mugging and theft of valuables in Solomon Islands?
Avoid travelling after dark. Ask your accommodation about current safety conditions before visiting the memorial. Keep valuables out of sight and carry only what you need. Avoid visiting the memorial alone.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not fight over belongings. Move to a safe place when you can, seek help and report the attack to police. Get medical care if you are injured.
Where in Solomon Islands does this happen?
Travel after dark is dangerous, especially in Honiara. Tourists have also been targeted at the Japanese War Memorial on Mt Austin in broad daylight. It has been reported in Honiara.
How common is this scam in Solomon Islands?
Occasional. Tourist scam frequency is unclear, but crime rates in Solomon Islands are high. The main documented threat is mugging, including attacks on tourists at the Japanese War Memorial on Mt Austin. Travel after dark is dangerous, especially in Honiara.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report mugging, theft or fraud. Give the location, time, description of the incident and a list of missing items. Ask your accommodation to help you find the appropriate police contact. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to block stolen cards and report unauthorised transactions. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact on your policy. Keep the police report, receipts and evidence of your losses. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
Reviewed by @snuck