But street crime does occur. Travelers should exercise the same precautions with regard to their personal safety and belongings that they would practice in any major city in the United States. Muggings and purse snatchings generally take place at night when the victims are walking alone along dimly lit streets. Auto theft is common. Robberies have occurred on trains, in train stations and in hotel rooms.
Police forces suffer from lack of manpower, resources and equipment.
Local police are not likely to speak English, so it may be difficult to obtain police assistance. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State s pamphlet, A Safe Trip Abroad , for hints on a more trouble-free trip. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the United States at tel. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact the DOD at tel.