Angola - They Say, We Say...

Other countries say...

"Motorists should stop at all police checkpoints if so directed. Police officers may solicit bribes or request immediate payment of "fines" for alleged minor infractions. Americans asked for bribes by the police should politely ask the traffic police to write them a ticket if the police is alleging a moving violation. If the police officer writes the ticket, then the motorist would pay the fine at the place indicated on the ticket. If no moving violation is alleged and the officer is asking for a bribe, the motorist should, without actually challenging the officer's authority, politely ask the officer for his/her name and badge number. Officers thus engaged will frequently let motorists go with no bribe paid if motorists follow this advice. Motorists are reminded to have all proper documents in the vehicle at all times (i.e. vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and driver's license), as the lack of documents is a vio lation and can also be a reason an officer would solicit a bribe. Police are not always responsive to reports of crime or requests for assistance. Most police are on foot and are assigned to designated stationary posts. The Rapid Intervention Police (PIR) unit is frequently seen patrolling various areas of the city. This unit, which is well-trained and organized, will respond to major criminal incidents . " USA Department of State

"We advise against all but essential travel to North and South Lunda Provinces, where there has been police activity to expel illegal diamond miners, and the interior of Cabinda Province, where there is an active separatist movement. Travel to areas of Angola beyond Luanda can be difficult and dangerous. We recommend that those travelling out of Luanda should do so only in the company of persons or organisations experienced in local conditions. The main risk to visitors to Luanda is from the high level of crime." The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Angolans say...

"The Government of Angola is substantially assisted in the development and maintenance of this World Wide Web site by C/R International, L.L.C., Washington, D.C. which is registered pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 612 with the U.S. Department of Justice, where its registration and this Home Page is available for public inspection. Registration does not indicate approval of this material by the United States Government."Angola Government Website.