Nicaragua 2008 Crime & Safety Report--The crime rate in Nicaragua is presently classified as high by the U.S. Gov't.

source: https://www.osac.gov/Reports/report.cfm?contentID=79298

Nicaragua 2008 Crime & Safety Report Crime & Safety Americas - Nicaragua 5 Feb 2008

Warden Message: U.S. Embassy Managua Encourages Extra Caution

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

American Citizens residing in or traveling to Nicaragua are advised to consult the U.S. Department of State’s travel website, http://travel.state.gov and U.S. Embassy Managua’s website at http://nicaragua.usembassy.gov for current information regarding the safety and security environment within Nicaragua. The crime rate in Nicaragua is presently classified as high by the U.S. Government (USG). While the crime rate in many areas in Nicaragua is similar to many large U.S. cities, the possibility of unwary travelers being specifically targeted makes personal security precautions necessary.

The most common crimes affecting foreigners in Nicaragua are personal property crimes, including robbery, burglary, and theft. In addition to property crime, Nicaragua is still a very popular transit point for drug trafficking, especially along the Atlantic Coast. Organized crime in Managua and other areas is increasing, and street crimes are a common occurrence. Although crime levels in Nicaragua do not match the levels in other Central American countries, incidents of gang activity continue to rise in frequency. Most of the street crime against foreigners in Managua occurs in the following areas:

- Avenida Bolivar, from the Plaza Inter Rotunda to the Military Hospital - The TICABUS public transportation terminal in Barrio Martha Quezada - Altamira Neighborhood - Roberto Huembes market and surrounding neighborhoods - Mayoreo Market and surrounding neighborhoods.

Nicaraguan National police (NNP) crime reports continue to show that organized crime and well planned crimes are taking place more frequently. Criminal elements in Managua, and other urban areas, have adopted techniques similar to what is found in other nearby countries where crime is more violent and organized. Techniques include the use of locally stolen vehicles and taxi cabs with missing or false license plates. Criminals usually operate in groups of three to four and are armed with handguns and sometimes with assault rifles.

Scams and burglaries are also common. A group may identify a target via surveillance, domestic employees or neighbors. Once surveillance indicates the target has left their residence, group members ring the bell of the residence to ascertain if the house is empty or contains household staff. If the staff is present, the group members can use a ruse to get inside and then ask to use the rest room or get a drink of water. Once in, the other group members will follow behind and rob the residence and any occupants. If the house is unoccupied, the members will likely conduct a burglary. Ten foot walls, razor wire and armed guards have not proven to be effective deterrents for desperate and savvy criminals.

While incidents of large scale fraud are not as common as in other countries in the region, it should be noted that some technical types of crime such as the use of credit card skimmers has occurred in Nicaragua. There has been an increase of reported incidents related to credit card cloning, after using these at commercial establishments such as gas stations and restaurants.

Travelers are urged to maintain caution when walking in the Managua’s Zona Rosa area. The Zona Rosa area is frequented by prostitutes who have been known to attempt to pickpocket passers-by and/or target them for armed robbery. As many of these prostitutes are drug users and may be armed with knives, walking in groups in well-lit areas is advised.

Visitors are also warned of the dangerous riptides and currents along the Pacific coast beaches. A number of travelers have had near-fatal accidents in the currents among some beach areas. The Embassy recommends travelers not swim alone due the currents and stresses that walking on the beaches at night is dangerous due to the criminal elements that frequent these areas during the hours of darkness.

While armed security is frequent in business and upscale residential areas, few armed security personnel have participated in organized training. There have been incidents of warning shots being fired, unsafe handling and use of firearms and criminal activity in which guards took an active role.

Two of the biggest threats to the safety of travelers are the poor conditions of roads/highways and heavy traffic in Nicaragua. The roads are often overcrowded and narrow with very limited sign placement alerting drivers to hazards. Drivers should maintain a heightened awareness for large potholes, stopped traffic, pedestrians/bicyclists and livestock in the roadway. Traffic rules and regulations are often ignored. Travelers are encouraged to ensure that all safety and lighting equipment of their vehicle is operational. Routine highway patrol by the NNP is very limited and a disabled vehicle may wait for a long period prior to the arrival of assistance. Driving at night is also not recommended in rural areas.

Political Violence

Urban areas in Nicaragua frequently play host to violent demonstrations. Many different segments of the population organize demonstrations, including university students, public transportation owner/operators, health sector employees (including doctors), labor unions and civil society groups. Violent clashes between demonstrators and police are common, as are the use of improvised mortars which have injured a significant number of police officers and demonstrators. It is also important to note that while large segments of protests are organized by “students”, in reality, very few of these organizers are actual full time students. Rather, they are part time students, to a very limited degree, who use the university grounds to stage demonstrations. Universities are very attractive to demonstrators since, under Nicaraguan law, police can not enter university grounds in pursuit of demonstrators who commit crimes.

The following areas are those that most commonly host large demonstrations: - City Hall - National Assembly - Central American University (uCA) - Rotunda Metrocentro - Rotunda Universitaria

In 2007, there were fewer signs of political unrest when compared to previous years. Most of the demonstrations that did occur were peaceful and against local government policies or due to the poor provision of public services and/or public service fees. It is expected that there could be an increase in demonstrations in 2008 over 2007 numbers as countrywide municipal elections will be held in November.

Natural Disasters

With regards to earthquakes and hurricanes, Nicaragua is at risk for earthquakes. Managua, Nicaragua rests on multiple seismic faults and the city was almost completely destroyed by earthquakes in 1931 and 1972. Nicaraguan scientists consider Managua to have a very high risk for another severe earthquake in the near future. Additionally, given Nicaragua’s Caribbean coast line, hurricanes are also a recurrent threat. In 1998, Hurricane Mitch made landfall in Nicaragua and killed over 3,000 people and destroyed over 30,000 houses. In 2007, Hurricane Felix caused extensive damage to the Atlantic coast of Nicaragua, further straining the already overburdened infrastructure. It should also be noted that Nicaragua has a number of active volcanoes, the closest of which, volcano Masaya, is less than ten miles from an Embassy neighborhood.

The Nicaraguan climate can be best described as “Hot and Dry” or “Hot and Wet”. The rainy season, from May to October brings about wide-scale flash flooding and land/mudslides. During the dry season, November to April, brush fires can present a threat in addition to air impurities from the resulting smoke.

The presence of these environmental threats in the area stresses the importance of travelers and residents maintaining an emergency supply of food and water. Additionally, residents and travelers should establish an emergency plan with their family members or fellow travelers in the event of a natural disaster. Additional information regarding emergency plans can be found at the U.S Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website located at http://www.fema.gov/hazard/index.shtm.

Narcotics Trafficking

The Nicaraguan Atlantic Coast region has historically been plagued with the presence of smuggling organizations, specifically drug traffickers. Smuggling via the use of boats and ships is the primary method of moving narcotics from South America to North America. These transit lines often pass via the Corn Islands, Bluefields and Puerto Cabezas areas in Nicaragua. Nicaragua has also seen an increase in the availability and use of crack cocaine, which has led to a related increase in personal property crimes in a number of urban areas.

Assistance to Victims

Local Emergency contact numbers: - Police: 118 or *118 (cellular phones) or 505-249-1925 - Fire: 115 or *115 (cellular phones) - Medical: 255-6900, (ext. 85152 for emergencies) or. 505-265-2081 - US Embassy American Citizen Services: 505-252-7888 – Managua@state.gov

General Police Support for Visitors

Nicaraguan Police are habitually undermanned, under trained and under equipped to effectively respond to crimes in progress. The Nicaraguan National police (NNP) is the sole law enforcement agency in the country. NNP is responsible for public safety and security, criminal investigations of all types, customs and immigration enforcement and traffic control. In general, travelers to Nicaragua are very likely to encounter a warm and hospitable environment countrywide. However, visitors may be solicited for bribe requests when contacted by NNP members in traffic related incidents. While there are countrywide emergency numbers in use, it is unlikely that an English speaking official will answer. The situation is the same when encountering Police, Fire and EMS personnel on the street. While language may be a problem, travelers will often find NNP members to be receptive and eager to assist. The NNP has created a tourism police unit that is deployed to areas frequented by tourists.

Medical Emergencies

The Embassy recommends that medical emergencies be treated at Hospital Metropolitano Vivian Pellas in Managua (Telephone 505-255-6900, ext. 85152 for the Emergency Room). Travelers are reminded that the facilities at this hospital are modern and often technologically advanced, but may not meet all U.S. standards. It should also be noted that ambulance services in Nicaragua are poor and do not meet U.S. standards. Travelers should prepare themselves for immediate payment to doctors and hospitals at the time of service or possibly before treatment is given. Malaria is endemic in Nicaragua, particularly in low lying areas such as the city of Managua and popular beach areas. Additionally, Dengue Fever is frequent to the region. Some water in various areas of Managua has tested safe for drinking; however, the Embassy Medical officer urges travelers to only consume bottled water with an intact sealed cap.

Tips to Avoid Becoming a Victim

Travelers to Nicaragua should maintain an increased level of security awareness while remaining aware of their surroundings. Visitors should attempt to maintain a low profile and ask hosts or hotel staff for local crime information. Even though visitors are in a foreign environment, they should trust their instincts. If something does not feel right, leave the area immediately.

Street Crime

Travelers should limit the wearing of expensive or flashy jewelry. Leave these items at home in the U.S. or secure them in the hotel safety deposit box. Take only the money you need with you and don’t keep it all in one pocket. Only change money at banks or hotels, as street exchanges can lead to fraud or robbery. Increase your awareness of your belongings while transiting congested areas such as airports or bus stations. Teams of criminals may frequent these areas and one will attempt to distract a victim while an accomplice commits the theft. Maintain a copy of Passport and credit card information and the telephone numbers to report a lost or stolen card. Criminals looking to illegally enter the U.S. may specifically target U.S. Passports for theft. Please ensure that your passport is kept secure. In the event of a robbery, the Embassy urges all travelers to comply with the demands of the suspect while attempting to observe identification information of the perpetrators. Once the suspect(s) has fled, contact police and the Embassy. No item or property is worth risking serious injury or death.

Theft of Electronic Items

Most electronic items, including laptop computers, mp3 players and palm pilots, are significantly more expensive in Nicaragua than in the U.S. and are attractive targets for thieves. Travelers should limit the carrying of these devices in public.

Vehicle Issues

Travelers should only use radio taxis at established international hotels, as travel by bus is not recommended for travelers. If a rental car is used, with or without a hired driver, an adequate level or local car insurance should be purchased. Don’t leave valuables in the vehicle or if no other option, secure valuables out of sight in the trunk or other areas of the vehicle. Always park in well lit areas near other vehicles.

Hotel Security

The level of security at hotels and resorts varies greatly from property to property. Many of the international hotels in Managua belonging to chains maintain adequate security. Outside Managua in the tourist areas, it is recommended that travelers inquire as to the security items in place at a property prior to making reservations. Be wary of hotels lacking access control procedures, 24 hour front desk staffing or well lit parking lots.

Embassy Contact Information

Embassy Phone Numbers/Address: - Main Switchboard: 505-252-7100 - Marine Security Guard Post One: 505-252-7634 - Local Guard Force Dispatch: 505-252-7730 - Embassy Duty officer: 505-882-3140 - Regional security officer: 505-252-7628 - Address: KM 5 1/2 Carretera Sur, Managua, Nicaragua 27. (U) POC is RSO Chris Rooks who can be reached at 011-505-252-7628 or via e-mail. General inquiries should be sent via e-mail at RSOManagua@state.gov.

OSAC Country Council

OSAC Managua has an active country council that meets bi-monthly. Parties interested in joining the country council in Managua should contact RSO Christopher Rooks, (505) 252-7100 ext. 7694.

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