The U.S. Embassy in Libreville advises U.S. citizens of a new crime trend in Libreville. Individuals will loiter near busy streets and observe passing cars in order to spot potential slowly moving targets. Once identified, an assailant will approach the target car on foot and reach in the window or open the door to snatch an item.
The best way of preventing this type of crime is to always have your windows rolled up and your doors locked when traveling in a vehicle. If using public transportation, request that the driver adhere to this guidance. Valuables should be placed out of plain sight, in the trunk, or on the floor of the car. Remain alert and be on the lookout for anyone unexpectedly approaching your car.
If you are the victim of an attempted theft, give up the property and do not attempt to fight back. Victims who have resisted have been threatened with weapons and are in danger of being injured.
Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
For further information:
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Gabon Country Specific Information.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Contact the U.S. Embassy in Gabon, located in Libreville, Quartier Sabliere at 241-01-45-71-00 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday. The embassy is closed on Gabonese and U.S. federal holidays. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is 241-01-07-38-01-71.
- Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
