Luanda - Post Report Question and Answers
Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
Yes. Crime is a real issue here. It is mainly opportunistic so important to be conscious not to show large amounts of money on you, expensive jewelry, etc. It is safe to walk most places here, however, in my opinion, you will always stand out and be a target for constant requests for money and food. We have 24 hour guards at the house, razor wire etc. - May 2021
Yes, security issues are plentiful here. I would not leave the house at night unless you're going car to building and building to car. People have been robbed, physically assaulted, and stabbed. Cars have been broken into even while people were stuck in traffic. Always keep your eye out. - Jun 2019
Yes, don't walk at night, ever. If you walk during the day, limit it, and don't bring your expensive phone and limit your cash. Find secure parking when you go out. Find an apartment with a parking spot. - Mar 2017
Violent crime is on the uptick. Property crime is more likely to happen than not. Gunpoint and knifepoint robberies of expats in the middle of the day. Unsafe to go anywhere at night unless it's a private place. - Apr 2016
Yes! We never forget that this is a critical crime threat post. Lots of street crime. No walking around after dark. No walking any time in restricted areas, especially the road connecting the Marginal with the Embassy. - Mar 2015
Lots of street crime. Runners have had their watches and shoes stolen; people have their windshields shattered with spark plugs while waiting in constantly grid-locked traffic. People visiting the bay will often get their bags stolen by motorcycle bandits. The street in front of the Embassy is off limits as people are regularly the victims of strong-armed robberies. - Aug 2014
Street crime is violent and common. It is very risky to walk alone and you should never walk around at night. This is a city of extreme poverty, which leads to desperation. There are many muggings on the street, often by armed criminals. There are also attacks on people in cars-- sometimes they try to open your car doors while you are stuck in traffic. Criminals are often armed with guns. Many embassy staff have been victims, and almost every Angolan I know has been robbed in the past year. They generally want your wallet and cell phone. Car accidents are also a real security threat. Roads are crowded, narrow and in poor condition. Minor fender-benders happen constantly in the city. On inter-city travel, be very careful about speed and be cautious when passing. There are about 3 fatal car accidents here per day according to police stats, which are likely very low. - Jul 2013
It is not safe to walk more than a block in day or night except at the marginal. - Apr 2013
too big a difference between the rich and the poor, people who live in 'slum' areas don't even have good access to clean water, which makes robbery/thievery a big problem, even among themselves. - Aug 2011
Street crime is frequent, but there is very little violence. - Aug 2011
Mild, just be careful. - Apr 2009
