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Using taxis safely overseas

by Juan A. Garcia Jr.

Using a taxi overseas can be a serious security risk. Long gone are the days when a friendly cabbie would be eager to take you safely to your destination. Now many cab drivers are becoming part of crime gangs that prey on unsuspecting expatriates, tourists, and locals just like any other criminal entity. Crimes can range from armed robberies, sexual or physical assaults, to kidnappings. Single females are especially targeted and run the risk of being sexually assaulted and robbed.

Here are two methods of attack. One is where a passenger is picked up and driven to a specific location where a gang of criminals is waiting to attack the victim. Another is where the cab drives to a designated location and other attackers get in the taxi and violently force the victim to surrender his or her valuables. These methods indicate that the attack has been well planned and thought out. There is no random execution other than choosing an easy victim. Weapons such as handguns and knives are used to control and subdue the victim.

Express kidnappings are also carried out in this manner. The victim is driven around and forced to withdraw money from their ATM accounts. For females the chances that a sexual assault will take place is great. What the criminal looks for is a female who is by herself, young, and is perceived to be an easy target.

So how can someone reduce the chances of being a victim while riding in a taxi overseas? Simply by pre-planning. If you live overseas you should research every cab company that services your area. Questions that you should ask are:

1)     What color cabs are the safest? Are there certain markings that you should look for?

2)     Are there crime statistics for cab assaults in particular locations?

3)     Who operates the safest cabs?

4)     Where are cabs located throughout the area?

5)     Is the driver’s picture and license readily available?

6)     Does the cab have a radio?

7)     Does the cab look legitimate? Many times this important and simple question is ignored.

If you are planning on taking a cab call for one yourself and ask if they can give you the drivers name and cab number. If staying in a hotel ask the staff for their recommendation and utilize their choice. When flying into a country you can also pre-plan by calling the hotel and asking for their recommendation, or by contacting the local embassy and requesting further information. Another option is to seek information from your company’s in country representative, or other company employees with experience in the particular country you are traveling to.

Locals and expatriates need to stay current with criminal trends. Knowing the times and dates that could see a spike in criminal activity is paramount if you don’t want to place yourself into bad situations. Never get into a taxi while under the influence of alcohol and avoid getting into one by yourself.

Other helpful hints include:

1)     Knowing the route the cab should take if possible.

2)     Continue to observe everything around you as your being driven.

3)     Let someone know if possible what time you got into the cab and what company you’re using.

4)     Try not to reveal too much if anything about your plan to a cab driver. Let them know someone is expecting you.

For business professionals using taxis overseas is imperative to conducting business. The point here is that before anyone travels abroad do your homework and find out about the criminal trends involving taxicabs. Find out who is reliable, and if your transportation can be set up by your parent company or a trustworthy source. Single females need to be particularly aware of the dangers of getting into a cab by themselves.

A plan begins with proper research, awareness, and alertness to your environment. Taking taxis is not going away any time soon for the business community, and expatriates. Just be safe and smart in choosing the right one to get into. Remember security is your responsibility. Be prepared for the unexpected!

Juan A. Garcia Jr. is the Owner and Chief Instructor of High Risk Security Services. HRSS specializes in providing personal security / anti-kidnapping training and consulting services for executives, expatriates, travelers, and organizations worldwide. See his company’s website at http://www.atrisksecurity.com/ Mr. Garcia can be reached at highrisk@att.net