Scam in CameroonFood and drink
Out-of-date bottled drinks in Cameroon
How it works
Some bottled drinks offered for sale are well past their best-before date. This does not establish that the seller is deliberately deceiving buyers.
Warning signs
- The bottle's best-before date has passed.
How to avoid it
- Read the best-before date before paying.
- Choose another bottle if the date has passed.
If it happens to you
Ask the seller for a replacement or refund if you discover the date after buying.
- Get to a safe place. During a robbery, do not resist, chase anyone or try to recover belongings by force.
- Check for injuries. Seek medical help if you have been hurt.
- Block stolen cards immediately. Secure a stolen phone and change passwords for important accounts.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, messages, booking details and any vehicle information you already have.
- Report the incident to the police. Ask for a written report or reference number if available.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing or you need consular help, contact your embassy or consulate.
Questions
What is the out-of-date bottled drinks scam in Cameroon?
Some bottled drinks offered for sale are well past their best-before date. This does not establish that the seller is deliberately deceiving buyers.
How can I spot it early?
The bottle's best-before date has passed.
How do I avoid out-of-date bottled drinks in Cameroon?
Read the best-before date before paying. Choose another bottle if the date has passed.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask the seller for a replacement or refund if you discover the date after buying.
Where in Cameroon does this happen?
Places selling bottled drinks across Cameroon.
How common is this scam in Cameroon?
Occasional. Petty theft is common in Cameroon, and pickpockets are a particular concern in crowded parts of Yaoundé. Travellers should also watch for unwanted paid luggage help, ticket scalpers and high opening prices at markets. Shared-taxi theft, armed robbery and vehicle crime can cause more serious losses.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery or fraud once you are safe. In Limbe, visitors are specifically advised to report crimes to the police. Ask for a written record if available. Police corruption and limited effectiveness are concerns elsewhere in Cameroon. Card issuer or bank: use the bank's official app or a verified contact number to block stolen cards and report payments you did not authorise. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate for a lost passport, replacement travel documents or consular support after a serious crime. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through the details on your policy. Keep receipts, incident notes and any police report for a claim. Relevant transport or service provider: raise a ticket problem, disputed fee or undisclosed charge through the provider's official customer-service channel. Keep proof of payment.
Reviewed by @snuck