Crime wave in Cape Verde
Cape Verde has seen a ‘significant’ rise in crime in the capital Praia and the port city of Mindelo and an increase in burglaries and violent muggings on the main tourist islands of Sal and Boa Vista, says the Foreign Office.
In an update to its travel advice, it said sexual assaults have also been reported and Britons visiting the islands are advised to ‘remain alert at all times’.
"Take precautions when walking along beaches, including praia de Estoril, praia de Chaves and Santa Monica," it said.
"Leave valuables in a hotel safe if possible and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Be vigilant and avoid unlit areas after dark."
Some petty crimes like pick-pocketing or purse snatching are carried out by children, it warned, adding: "Avoid groups of children who appear not to have any adult supervision."
However, the Foreign Office described the crime rates in many parts of Cape Verde as low.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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