WHERE’S THE RISK?

Nigeria

Violent criminality is pervasive throughout Nigeria, particularly in the commercial hub Lagos where affluent districts popular with foreign business people are targeted. Corruption within the Nigerian police is endemic and foreign business people who fall victim to crime may find police unable or unwilling to offer assistance.

Mexico

In addition to widespread violent gang crime, Mexico’s police and security services are frequently implicated in serious criminality, including armed robbery, kidnap and murder. The government has also encouraged vigilante self-defence groups in many regions over which it has limited control. Foreign businesspeople are extremely vulnerable to bribery and extortion from state and para-state organs, including in Mexico City.

Egypt

The persistent threats of large-scale demonstrations, political violence and terrorist activity have not diminished since the election of President el-Sisi. Violent civil disorder could develop in major city centres at short notice and terrorist groups may target locations frequented by foreign businesspeople.

The Philippines

Violent crime is a serious concern in urban areas throughout the Philippines, with major business hubs and the vicinities of international hotels targeted by criminal gangs. Despite the ongoing peace process, in southern Philippines there is a very high risk of kidnap by Islamist and Communist insurgent groups.

Bangladesh

Political and ethnic violence occurs regularly in urban areas throughout the country and frequently leads to fatalities. Countrywide general strikes (hartal) paralyse transport and prevent access to basic services, sometimes for extended periods. Foreign businesspeople attempting to use private transport or conduct business operations during strikes may be targeted in violence.

India

Terrorist and insurgent groups are active in large swathes of eastern and northeastern India, as well as in Jammu and Kashmir. Foreign businesspeople are vulnerable to kidnap and extortion across much of India’s industrial and mining heartland.

Kenya

There is a persistent threat from terrorist activity in Kenya with many bombings and grenade attacks going unreported in the international press. Violent crime, including armed robbery and carjacking, also occurs frequently in Nairobi and Mombasa, with perpetrators sometimes impersonating police officers.

Brazil

Political demonstrations are common in urban areas throughout the country and often escalate into violent confrontation with police, who may respond with tear gas and rubber bullets. Violent crime is also a serious threat in major cities including São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, and can occur at any time of day.

Ghana

Armed robbery can occur anywhere in the country, including in Accra and at Accra’s international airport where criminals target foreign businesspeople that are not met by minders. Foreign nationals are also targeted in a variety of scams including pedestrians intentionally causing traffic accidents in order to extort money.

Argentina

Until recently, Argentina had escaped much of the gang related violence that has plagued Latin America. However, Argentina is now playing a growing role within the international drugs trade. Intergang violence and violent street crime are both increasing as a result, and there are fears that the gangs are infiltrating the police and security services.