VZCZCXRO9676
PP RUEHBZ RUEHDU RUEHJO RUEHMR RUEHRN
DE RUEHAN #0003/01 0051145
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
P 051145Z JAN 09
FM AMEMBASSY ANTANANARIVO
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 1927
INFO RUCNSAD/SOUTHERN AF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY COLLECTIVE

UNCLAS SECTION 01 OF 04 ANTANANARIVO 000003 
 
SIPDIS 
 
DEPT FOR DS/IP/AF, 
DEPT FOR AF/E, 
DEPT FOR DS/DSS/OSAC, 
DEPT FOR DS/DSS/ITA, 
DEPT FOR CA/OCS/ACS/AF 
 
E.O. 12958: N/A 
TAGS: ASEC KSAC MA CN
SUBJECT: ANNUAL OSAC CRIME/SAFETY REPORT FOR MADAGASCAR AND THE 
COMOROS 
 
REF: STATE 132056 
 
-------------------------------------- 
¶1. OVERALL CRIME AND SAFETY SITUATION: 
-------------------------------------- 
 
¶A. Crime in Madagascar is consistent with the rates in other 
developing countries in the world. In 2008, Antananarivo saw its 
violent crime rate increase for the second consecutive year. 
Criminal elements in Antananarivo and throughout Madagascar are 
utilizing more confrontational tactics (threat of force or use of a 
weapon) when targeting victims, and are also committing more crimes 
in areas that are considered to be "safe" - those that are generally 
well lit and well traveled by pedestrians and vehicles. The U.S. 
Embassy has seen a noticeable increase in crime, sometimes violent, 
against tourists in the coastal cities frequented by tourists. 
 
¶B. In 2008, the U.S. Embassy has continued to receive weekly reports 
of increased criminal activity in the Malagasy community and from 
expats living in Antananarivo who were targeted by armed criminal 
elements. This year also saw increased media coverage documenting 
the increase levels of violent crime. During instances of home 
invasion robberies, the criminals often know the occupants of the 
residence or have intelligence indicating an increased amount of 
assets are being held in the residence and confront the occupants of 
the residence with armed force. Many of these criminal gangs are 
comprised of former felons, or ex-military and police units from the 
former regime and possess weapons such as AK-47 assault rifles and 
pistols stolen from military armories during the political crisis of 
2001/2002. 
 
¶C. During the last six months of 2008, the U.S. Embassy received 
several reports of incidents involving night time criminal activity 
targeting vehicles driving outside of Antananarivo. These incidents 
involved rural villages designing a "trap" of sand, a tree log or 
some other substance or condition that makes the only viable road 
impassible. Local villagers then "assist" the stranded vehicle and 
expect monetary compensation. Other incidents have involved armed 
criminals who stage a "breakdown" that blocks the roadway, forcing 
the victimized driver to slow down, and hence become vulnerable. One 
incident occurred near Antananarivo's international airport where a 
group of armed attackers blocked the road and unsuccessfully 
attempted an armed robbery against a foreign national resident. 
 
¶D. However, the vast majority of crime that does occur in 
Antananarivo is petty street crime. Thieves use stealth and surprise 
to commit crimes of opportunity such as pick pocketing and "grab and 
run". Petty street crime occurs during all times of the day in the 
city. After dark, all Americans should avoid walking in the city or 
departing from bars and night clubs on foot, even in groups. 
Numerous attacks against foreigners, even against those departing as 
a group, have occurred late at night after departing a night club. 
 
¶E. Americans visiting Madagascar should not expect to experience any 
hostility or aggression because of their citizenship. In fact, with 
the current government, the atmosphere for Americans is welcoming 
and receptive. There are no visible signs of anti-Americanism 
displayed by the press or the government of Madagascar. Americans 
who visit Madagascar are encouraged to register with the Consular 
Section located at the Embassy and to check with the most recent 
consular information sheet on Madagascar located at 
http://travel.state.gov. 
 
----------------------- 
COMOROS 
----------------------- 
¶E. The U.S. Government has no permanent presence in the Comoros. For 
American Citizens Services (AMCIT) the Consular Officer can be 
contacted at the American Embassy in Antananarivo at 261 (20) 22 212 
¶57. American citizens who visit Comoros are encouraged to register 
with the Consular section in Antananarivo. Registration can be done 
online at http://travel.state.gov and travelers can also review the 
Consular information sheet on the Comoros. 
 
¶F. Since gaining independence in 1975, Comoros has experienced 20 
coups or attempted coups. Over the past few years, Comoros has 
experienced frequent strikes and civil unrest, which at times 
resulted in violent clashes between demonstrators and security 
forces. The most recent unrest involved the de facto separation of 
Anjouan from the Union government. In March 2008, Union forces 
re-took Anjouan and later held successful island elections. At the 
time of this writing, the nation is at relative peace but conditions 
are subject to rapid change on each of the three islands of Comoros 
due to weak political institutions and economic development. U.S 
citizens should avoid political rallies and street demonstrations 
due to the potential risk of confrontation and violence. 
 
ANTANANARI 00000003  002 OF 004 
 
 
 
¶G. Within the islands of Grand Comore, Moheli, and Anjouan, criminal 
activity is frowned upon within the Comoran culture. Criminal acts 
against foreigners are extremely rare and the Regional Security 
Officer (RSO) considers the Comoros to be an extremely safe 
community. However, if you are a victim of a crime you are advised 
not to resist, to remain calm, and to report the incident as soon as 
possible to the Consular Officer at telephone number 22-212-57 or 
the RSO at cell number phone: (261) 33-11-753-69. 
 
---------------------- 
¶2. POLITICAL VIOLENCE: 
---------------------- 
 
¶A. Putting aside its history of political instability, over the past 
few years Madagascar has completed multiple successful rounds of 
nationwide elections without any violence or large scale protests. 
All elections were viewed by the international community to be 
largely free and fair. At present, very little political violence or 
unrest exists in Madagascar. The political process, with some 
constraints allows for dissent and opposing views, appears to be 
stable. Although protests and demonstrations do occur frequently, 
they tend to be peaceful, with minimal effect on the security of 
citizens and visitors. However, the U.S. Embassy recommends that all 
Americans should avoid political gatherings and street 
demonstrations. In the past, there have been instances of violence 
during demonstrations but these outbursts were not directed against 
Americans. Certain large gatherings such as concerts or scenes of an 
accident also may pose a threat to bystanders. 
 
¶B. Due to the ongoing military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, 
the continued threat of terrorist attacks targeting western 
personnel and institutions, and the past terrorist attacks in the 
United States, Americans overseas are encouraged to remain vigilant 
to their surroundings and to exercise caution. Americans should 
avoid large crowds and gatherings, keep a low profile, and vary 
routes and times of all routine travel. 
 
-------------------------- 
¶3. POST-SPECIFIC CONCERNS: 
-------------------------- 
 
¶A. Crimes of opportunity are the most common type of incidents the 
local police deal with in Madagascar. Street crime and other forms 
of petty crime exist in most countries with high poverty levels, and 
Madagascar is no exception. Thefts from unlocked and locked 
vehicles, pick pocketing, and similar crimes are the most frequently 
reported incidents involving westerners. American citizens as well 
as other foreign visitors routinely report crime to their Embassies 
in Antananarivo. Nearly all foreigners stand out among the local 
population and, in so doing, are readily identifiable as potential 
targets of opportunity who carry in their possession more money, 
jewelry, and electronics than the average or even well off Malagasy 
could possess. Therefore, street crime is the biggest threat to 
American visitors coming to Madagascar. 
 
¶B. Madagascar is a nation prone to seasonal cyclones (hurricanes), 
which can do substantial damage, particularly in the coastal areas. 
Typically, the cyclone season starts in early December and can last 
until mid April. In 2008, Madagascar was struck by four cyclones. 
Specifically, Cyclone Ivan hit the popular tourist destination of 
Isle Sainte Marie, off the northeastern coast of Madagascar, 
destroying 90% of the tourist destination's infrastructure. In 2007, 
Madagascar was effected by seven cyclones causing massive flooding 
in the coastal areas and destroying numerous homes, roads and 
bridges. 
 
------------------- 
¶4. POLICE RESPONSE: 
------------------- 
 
¶A. Two organizations are charged with maintaining peace and security 
in Madagascar, and are responsible for upholding its laws. The 
primary organization responsible for areas of Madagascar outside of 
the major cities is the Gendarmerie. The organization responsible 
for Antananarivo and other cities in Madagascar is the National 
Police. The U.S. Embassy in Antananarivo maintains excellent 
relations with both organizations. 
 
¶B. Because Madagascar is a developing country, with the majority of 
the population living in extreme poverty, resources available to the 
local police services are extremely limited. The police are unable 
to respond to alarm calls or emergency calls in a reasonable time 
and sometimes take up to 45 minutes or longer to respond due to a 
number of factors. When emergency telephone calls are initiated by 
residents in Antananarivo, frequently the police telephones will go 
 
ANTANANARI 00000003  003 OF 004 
 
 
unanswered or the caller may receive a busy tone. Secondly, if an 
emergency call is answered, the police will usually have to meet a 
resident of the household at a recognizable landmark as there are no 
road signs in the neighborhood to help guide the responding police 
unit to the residence requesting assistance. This action increases 
the response time to an emergency call. Also the police do not have 
a computerized emergency call system which can locate the residence 
of a call for police services. In addition, another issue hampering 
police response is the credibility of the caller requesting 
services. The police must judge the credibility of the caller in 
order to determine if potential criminal elements are trying to send 
the police units off in the opposite direction before a criminal 
raid on a residence or business begins. Normally, a district police 
office in Antananarivo will have only one or two police cars 
available and functioning for any type of intervention operation. 
 
¶C. In Madagascar, Military/Police roadblocks are common. At the 
first sight of a roadblock, travelers should be at a high state of 
alert and proceed with caution when approaching a roadblock. At 
these roadblocks, it is recommended that the traveler slow down (to 
a crawl) and be prepared to show identification. If the driver or 
any passengers of the vehicle are talking on a mobile telephone, 
they should immediately terminate the call and begin following the 
directions of the security forces controlling the roadblock. If the 
police/military personnel indicate that they want you to stop, then 
do so. Keep your windows rolled up, but show your identification. If 
you find yourself the recipient of excessive attention, detention, 
or harassment, to include the payment of impromptu "tolls", contact 
the Embassy as soon as possible. 
 
¶D. During an emergency, visitors to Antananarivo can contact local 
police at telephone numbers 117 and 22-227-35. Visitors can also 
contact the U.S. Embassy in Antananarivo, at telephone number 
22-212-57 if assistance is needed in communicating with law 
enforcement officials. 
 
----------------------- 
¶5. MEDICAL EMERGENCIES: 
----------------------- 
 
¶A. In case of a medical emergency, perform first aid and take the 
patient directly to the Polyclinique D'Ilafy located in Antananarivo 
22-425-66/69. Ambulance service in Antananarivo can be obtained 
through Espace Medical/Ambulance at 22-625-66, 22-219-72, or 
032-02-088-16 or Polyclinique D'Ilafy at 22-425-66/69 or 
033-11-458-48. The Embassy recommends that all visitors have medical 
evacuation insurance before arrival in Madagascar. Several air 
ambulance companies operate out of Antananarivo. A list can be 
provided by contacting the Embassy receptionist at 22-212-57. The 
receptionist can also provide a list of doctors, dentists, 
hospitals, pharmacies, and veterinarians. 
 
--------------------------------------------- ------ 
¶6. TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID BECOMING A VICTIM OF CRIME: 
--------------------------------------------- ------ 
 
¶A. The Embassy Security Office recommends that visitors to 
Madagascar take the following safety/security precautions during 
their travels in Madagascar: 
 
-Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded streets. If 
you feel you have been targeted for criminal assault, move into the 
nearest safe haven, i.e. police station, restaurant, hotel, etc. 
 
-Carry only a minimum of valuables. If possible, leave your 
valuables in a hotel safe, deposit box or similar secure container. 
If high value jewelry must be carried, store them in concealed or 
protected containers during your transit period. 
 
-When driving or riding in a vehicle, always lock the doors and keep 
the windows rolled up in order to avoid "snatch and run" crimes. 
 
-Be cautious when purchasing from street vendors. Certain items such 
as Aepyornis (a large extinct bird) eggs, gemstones, and gold are 
controlled exports and can create problems upon your departure. 
Street vendors frequently attempt to sell gemstones that are nothing 
more than broken colored glass to unsuspecting tourists. 
 
-If establishing a business or residential presence, consider 
employing a private security service. The Embassy Security Office 
recommends against residents having a gardener fill the role of a 
residential watchman. Residential break-ins frequently occur during 
night time hours. Private security services have at their disposal 
rapid response react teams to respond to emergency calls. There are 
several reputable security firms in Antananarivo. Recommendations 
can be obtained from the Embassy security office. 
 
ANTANANARI 00000003  004 OF 004 
 
 
 
¶B. Because of Madagascar's poor infrastructure, sub-standard road 
maintenance and lighting, inadequate communications, and lack of 
repair facilities, travelers venturing outside Antananarivo should 
adhere to the following: 
 
-Use a reputable guide or tour company to assist in your travel. 
 
-Provide an itinerary and route of travel (i.e., time/date/place of 
arrival) to a trusted associate or representative. 
 
-Travel with some type of two-way communication device such as a 
cellular or satellite telephone. 
 
-Travel only during daylight hours. The U.S. Embassy strongly 
recommends avoiding night time travel outside urban areas due to 
poor road conditions, non-existent emergency response resources, and 
criminal elements that target night time travelers. 
 
-Bring sufficient funds, spare parts, etc. to take care of emergency 
situations. 
 
-If possible, travel with other vehicles and/or travelers. 
 
--------------------------- 
¶7. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: 
--------------------------- 
 
¶A. The Consular Section urges all visitors to register with the 
Embassy upon arrival or before the trip at 
travelregistration.state.gov. The Embassy is located in downtown 
Antananarivo at 14-16 rue Rainitovo, Antsahavola, BP 620, telephone 
261-20-22-212-57 or 22-207-18. The Consular Section, Commercial 
Officer, and Regional Security Officer (RSO) are all located at the 
Embassy and can be reached at the above numbers. The web site for 
the U.S. Embassy in Madagascar is: www.antananarivo.usembassy.gov 
 
¶B. An Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) does exist in 
Madagascar. OSAC is designed to assist the American private sector 
with its security and information needs overseas. The Regional 
Security Officer is available to meet with representatives of U.S. 
businesses visiting Madagascar to answer questions about security. 
 
------------------------ 
¶8. OSAC COUNTRY COUNCIL: 
------------------------ 
 
¶A. Regional Security Officer RJ Bent 
U.S. Embassy 
+261-20-22-212-57 
 
¶B. Political Officer Dovie Holland 
U.S. Embassy 
+261-20-22-212-57 
 
¶C. Consul Officer Melanie Rubenstein 
U.S. Embassy 
+261-20-22-212-57 
 
¶D. Bill Campbell 
G4S Safetech 
+261-20-22-537-74 
 
¶E. Bruno Rasolomanana 
Catholic Relief Services 
+261-20-22-665-65 
 
¶F. Josh Poole 
ADRA 
+261-20-22-523-70 
 
 
STROMAYER