Freetown - Post Report Question and Answers
Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
Crime is high along Lumley Beach where there are many restaurants. Most diplomatic residences and compounds give 24/7 security. - Jan 2022
This is a poor country so you will have all of the threats that can go along with high poverty. Petty theft and some car jackings can happen. Like all places just be aware of your surroundings and you will be okay. - Sep 2021
Petty theft but nothing more than most places. You live a pretty insulated and isolated life here so no other threats you'd ever interact with or come upon on a daily basis. You can't really walk around here (nor would you want to., garbage and staring everywhere) so you aren't likely to get robbed anyway. - May 2018
You stick out, people will stare and little kids ask for money, it's depressing. Guys on motorbikes beep at you constantly, with no reason why. But people on your block do get used to you and of course at food establishments. Beware of walking alone at night, crimes are of opportunity vs. targeted. Have not heard of any breaks in or violent crime, we all have 24 hr guards and gated homes. There are beggars and even people you think are your friends or hired help that will find ways to push for (extra) money or help of some sort...give an inch and locals take a mile. It sucks, we thought we'd make a ton of local friends but income disparity and the culture here make it hard. You end up hanging out with expats mostly. - Sep 2017
Petty theft is common on public transportation or when people leave their windows down and bags on the seats. "Grab and dash" is the most common crime I would hear about. Lock your car doors and put valuables on the car floor, not on the seat in plane view of everyone. 90% of the population lives on less than US$1 per day so don't be flashy. - Sep 2014
As a critical crime post, areas of concern are walking the streets/beaches at night, crimes of opportunity and infrequently, house break-ins. There have been two in two years here. There is no police response or reliable investigation. Otherwise most people don't worry a lot about crime. - Jun 2014
The roads and driving conditions are horrible. Drive with extreme caution. Crimes of opportunity happen all the time, just use good sense. - Aug 2013
Petty Crime. - Sep 2010
