Sub Saharan Africa

Terrorism

The threat from terrorism is low but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

 

Crime

 

The sea front area in Lomé, particularly around the Hotel Sarakawa is dangerous and you should avoid this area as far as possible.  Walking is not advisable in this area.  Pick-pocketing and theft are common, especially along the beach and in the market areas of Lomé.  Some taxis are poorly maintained, and you should take particular care when seeking to use one.  Attacks on pedestrians happen in broad daylight as well as at night.  You should enter and exit public places such as restaurants in groups rather than on your own.

 

Crime is increasing in Lomé.  Local authorities warn of a rise in violent robberies and car-jacking incidents targeting both foreigners and Togolese alike.  Togolese authorities have also warned motorists to only stop for individuals in uniform, particularly after dark.  You are advised to avoid travelling alone where possible even within Lomé city limits, especially after dark.

British nationals resident in the UK and European nationals are increasingly becoming targets by scam artists operating in West Africa.  The scams come in many forms: romance & friendship, business ventures, work and employment opportunities, the facilitation of money (for internet dating scams see below), and can pose great financial loss to victims.  Relatives or friends in the UK should first check with the person who has travelled to West Africa before becoming involved in the transfer of money.  If you are concerned about a British national who has travelled to Togo you should contact the Consular Section of the British High Commission, Accra (E-mail: High.Commission.Accra@fco.gov.uk).  Schemes in operation by West African criminal networks are designed to facilitate victims parting with money.

British nationals are also being targeted by West African scam artists through internet based dating sites. The scam artists assume the false identity of a foreign national (sometimes British) working and living in West Africa. In some instances the impostor has informed their foreign friend that they have been hospitalised or arrested and need money quickly. In other cases foreigners have come to Togo to meet the person with whom they have been in contact only to be kidnapped and become the victim of financial extortion.

You will wish to treat with considerable caution any requests for funds, a job offer, a business venture or a face to face meeting from someone you have been in correspondence with over the internet who lives in West Africa.  For further information on advance fee fraud please see: http://www.met.police.uk/fraudalert.

For more general information see Victims of Crime & Abroad.

Political Situation

Togo Country Profile

 

Since the previous Presidential elections in 2005, there has been a sustained period of relative calm in Togo.  Presidential elections are due to be held again in February 2010. Political rallies and demonstrations prior to and following this period may occur. You should aovid any large public gatherings (including political rallies and demonstrations) which may appear peaceful but could have the potential to turn violent. Outbreaks of civil unrest could occur at anytime.  In the past demonstrators have targeted expatriates.  You should monitor developments through the local media. 
 
Local Travel

 

Extreme caution should be exercised if you need to go out after dark.  You should not venture out alone in the dark if possible.  You may come across official and unofficial roadblocks even in the city centre.  You should seek local advice from other expatriates on the ground.  Exit and entry points at the borders can be opened and closed at short notice.

 

If you decide to travel to Togo, be prepared for checks of passport/identity papers and possible vehicle checks by the local Police and Military.  There have been reports of people being killed when attempting to resist car-jackings.  It is generally better not to resist armed attack.

 

If it is necessary to travel by car at night you should do so in a convoy of at least two cars.  You should stop at all control points on request, turn on interior vehicle lights and only continue when permission has been given to do so.

 

Road Travel

 

Do not travel outside Lomé at night.  Roads are poorly lit and often hazardous.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

 

Air Travel

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community.  You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

 

You are advised to reconfirm flights 48 hours prior to departure.

For more general information see Airline Security.

Swimming
 
Ocean currents are very strong along the coast.  Many drownings occur each year. 

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.