Cape Town: United States has warned tourists and asked them to refrain from using GPS in South Africa. Especially the Prospective American tourists who are in Cape town have been warned not to rely on GPS to get around.
Reportedly, the US Department of State has pasted a permanent warning on its travel advisory page about the GPS navigation working system in South Africa. A number of US tourists have recently been victims of crime after Google maps have taken them through townships from the airport.
The warning was followed by the incident that happened in November 2023 and included Walter Fischel who got his teeth blasted out after being shot in the face by attackers in Nyanga.
As per the reports, the phone navigation app took him on a detour through the area after he landed in Cape Town. The US couple is also suing Google after being attacked in Nyanga in October last year after following the directions that were indicated on Google Maps.
The Couple Jason and Katharine Zoladtz were hijacked and robbed at gunpoint while being guided by the Google Maps. A brick was thrown through the window of their rental vehicle shattering Jason’s jaw.
Considering this incident, Google Maps released its statement and said that it would no longer direct users through Nyanga.
Notably, the advisory from the US Department of State now urged travellers to stay on major highways and to avoid reliance on navigation apps.
The advisory reads, “Exercise increased caution in South Africa due to crime and civil unrest. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as armed robbery, rape, carjacking, mugging and “smash-and-grab” attacks on vehicles, is common. There is a higher risk of violent crime in the central business districts of major cities after dark.”
The advisory states further that, “Using GPS navigation can lead to unsafe routes. GPS navigation may suggest shortcuts through townships as the quickest preferred route but can lead to increased risks of crime. There have been incidents in which tourists travelling in Cape Town while using GPS navigation apps have been routed through residential areas with high rates of violent crime.”
However, the safest approach to return a rental car to Cape Town International Airport is to take the N2 highway and follow signs to Airport Rd (exit-16).
The advisory ads, “Alternatively, request the rental car company to collect your vehicle and subsequently arrange an airport transfer from established taxi companies or established ridesharing services to reach the airport.”
“Demonstrations, protests and strikes occur frequently. These can develop quickly without prior notification, often interrupting traffic, transportation and other services such as events that have the potential to turn violent,” says the advisory.
Moreover, the State Department also released some tips for travellers, that they must consider while travelling to South Africa. Firstly, research the route in advance and stay on major highways, avoid shortcuts through townships and avoid relying on GPS navigation apps.
Secondly, avoid walking alone especially after dark. Also avoid visiting informal settlement areas unless you are with someone who is familiar with the area. Do not display cash or valuables, just drive with doors locked and windows closed. Always carry a copy of your US passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Review the Country Security Report for South Africa. Also prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations like this.
