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U.S. Embassy Kyiv - Visa Services
Street Crime Update - US Embassy KYIV Warden Message - March 2, 2005
Following the February 26 assault of an American citizen near Andriivskyi Uzviz in downtown Kyiv, we are issuing this warden message to again remind all U.S. citizens of the crime-related paragraphs in the Consular Information Sheet for Ukraine. We issued a similar notice in early November after the occurrence of several other attacks which, like this one, appeared to have been racially motivated. The attacks all occurred in public, well-lit areas during daylight or relatively early hours of the evening and in the presence of numerous witnesses. In these incidents the only purpose seemingly was to do physical harm to people who appeared foreign.
As security experts advise, we can influence what happens to us by exercising good judgment in our daily activities, such as avoiding dangerous situations, changing our routines, remaining alert, being proactive with regard to personal security, carrying a cell phone, and maintaining a low profile. Any American citizens who become victims of crime are encouraged to report the incident to the Embassy’s American Citizens Services office (see points of contact below).
For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Cautions, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
In the event further information is obtained regarding this or any other security or safety situation in Ukraine, the Embassy will provide updates via this same channel and on the Embassy's web page. American citizens who need to contact the Embassy may do so during working hours by calling the main Embassy telephone number at (38-044) 490-4000. The Embassy's duty officer may be reached after hours via this same number, or by contacting (38-050) 311-1796.
CRIME:
Most travelers do not encounter problems with crime while in Ukraine. Nonetheless, the country is undergoing a significant economic, political and social transformation, and income disparities have grown sharply. As a result, visitors perceived to be wealthier are targets for criminals. Americans often stand out in Ukraine, and are therefore more likely to be targeted than in Western European countries where incomes are higher and Americans may blend in better. Most street crime is relatively low level, but crimes involving small caliber firearms have been reported. Street crime ranges from wallet scams, simple pick pocketing and purse snatching, to muggings, armed robbery, or drugging unsuspecting victims at nightspots and bars (where they are then robbed). Cases of assaults in apartment building corridors and stairwells, and armed break-ins have also been reported.
Credit card and ATM fraud is widespread. Ukraine operates as a cash economy, and money scams are widespread. Although credit card and ATM use among Ukrainians is increasingly common, we nevertheless strongly recommend that visitors and permanent residents of Ukraine refrain from using credit cards or ATM cards.
Burglaries of apartments and vehicles represent the most significant threat to long-term residents. Although few cars are actually stolen, primarily because of increased use of alarm systems and security wheel locks, vehicular break-ins and vehicular vandalism are becoming more common.
In Ukraine there is a lack of tourist and travel services upon which American and foreign visitors can rely in the aftermath of a crime. Transferring funds from the United States, replacing stolen traveler's checks or airline tickets, or canceling credit cards can be difficult and time consuming. There is a lack of safe, low cost lodgings such as youth hostels. Public facilities in Ukraine are generally not equipped to accommodate persons with physical disabilities.
Reports of racially motivated incidents against non-Caucasian foreigners, including American citizens of African and Asian descent, have been registered at our Embassy. In addition to incidents of assault, persons of African or Asian heritage may be subject to various types of harassment, such as being stopped on the street by both civilians and law enforcement officials.
Over the past several years, we have received a number of reports of harassment and intimidation directed against foreign businesspersons and interests. While these reports have become considerably less frequent in recent years, they have not ended entirely. Reported incidents range from physical threats (possibly motivated by rival commercial interests tied to organized crime), to local government entities engaging in such practices as arbitrary termination or amendment of business licenses, dilution of corporate stock to diminish U.S. investor interest, delays of payment or delivery of goods, and arbitrary "inspections" by tax, safety or other officials that appear designed to harm the business rather than a genuine attempt at good governance.
Computer fraud is also becoming more common in Ukraine. Internet scams, especially in the area of Internet dating and marriage agencies, appear to be on the increase. We suggest refraining from wiring money unless the recipient is well known and the purpose of business is clear. Americans citizens have reported transferring money to Ukraine to pay for goods purchased from residents of Ukraine via on-line auction sites, but never receiving the goods in return. The Embassy regularly receives complaints from Americans regarding scams involving marriage and dating services. Numerous Americans have lost money to agencies and individuals that claimed they could arrange for student or fiancee visas to the U.S. Additional information is available on our web site in a document titled "Marriage Brokers ".
If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, report the incident to the local police. In addition, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends, and to explain how funds can be transferred from the U.S. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, help you find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.
U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.
American Citizens Services Unit
Consular Section
U.S. Embassy Kyiv, Ukraine
tel.: (+38 044) 490-4422
fax: (+38 044) 490-4040
kyiv.usembassy.gov
Afterhours emergency line for U.S. citizens: (+38 044) 490-4000
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