The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi issued a security alert Friday about rising crime in residential areas of the Kenyan capital, warning that incidents like purse and phone snatching are increasing.
The embassy advised American citizens to avoid displaying signs of wealth such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches, keep valuables like phones concealed, and lock vehicle doors when stopped in traffic.
“There are reports of increased criminal activity in residential areas of Nairobi. Incidents include crimes of opportunity such as purse and phone snatching,” the embassy said. It noted the Kenyan government is deploying more police officers to high-crime areas.
The advisory did not cite specific neighborhoods or data on the number of incidents. No other details were provided.
