Warden Messages

Increased Crime

September 20, 2006 

In light of several recent criminal incidents involving American citizens in The Gambia, the Embassy would like to highlight the need for increased awareness and urge that basic personal security cautions be taken.
Most criminal incidents have happened after dark, in poorly-lit areas, to individuals, especially women, walking alone.  There have also been cases of attempted theft from occupied vehicles stopped in traffic with the windows open or the doors unlocked.

Americans should avoid walking alone at night and ensure that all vehicle windows and doors are locked when driving.  Report any incidents of criminal activity involving an American citizen to the local police and to the Embassy’s American Citizen Services Section.

For more information concerning crime in The Gambia, please refer to the State Department’s Consular Information Sheet (CIS) at http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1121.html
Please read more about a Safe Trip Abroad at: http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html

The U.S. Embassy in The Gambia is located on Kairaba Avenue in Fajara and the telephone number is (220) 439-2856.  For emergency assistance outside of business hours (which are Monday – Thursday 8:00-5:30 and Friday 8:00-12:00), please call 996-2710 to reach the Duty Officer.