ACTING PRUDENTLY /SAFETY CONCERNS

In 1996, Guatemala celebrated the end of a 36-year period of internal conflict that has paralyzed the country since the 1960’s. The government of Guatemala and RUNG guerrillas signed a final peace accord on December 29, 1996. The struggle to make the transition from an autocratic regime to democracy takes time and has created local crime problems.

Please note: Walking in the streets of Antigua is no longer considered safe. A curfew of 10:00pm will be enforced on all mission teams for your safety.

Recent reports of increased incidences of theft nd assault in Guatemala create a climate of concern for groups such as ours. Unfortunately incidents of assault and robbery involving American citizens and other foreigners have increased. Remember there are many poor desperate people in Guatemala with large segments unemployed since the end of the war. EVERY visiting North American is considered to be rich!

Periodically, unfounded rumors that foreigners are involved in the theft of children for the purpose of using their organs in transplants or to sell them on the black market have led to threats in various parts of the country. While this is not currently considered an immediate concern, travelers should be aware that in areas outside of the major tourist and business destinations there exists greater likelihood, albeit small, of an incident occurring. Travelers also increase their risk if they have contact with Guatemalan hildren. As a matter of respect for the Guatemalan people and to eliminate any fear they might have, it is a good idea to avoid contact with children and ASK FOR THE PRIVILEGE OF TAKING PICTURES.

No area in Guatemala can be definitively characterized as “always safe.” In the past, travel during daylight hours and travel in groups generally afforded some measure of personal security; however, the most recent incidents reported to the U.S. Embassy (primarily robberies) have for the most part occurred during daylight hours and in many cases have affected entire groups of tourists. Accounts show that persons who offer no resistance when confronted by thieves are more likely not to be hurt. Do not resist if confronted. Pickpockets and purse-snatchers are prevalent in major cities and tourist areas such as Antigua. So, be careful especially in crowded markets and on deserted streets.

Hold onto your fanny packs and back packs. Theives can open the zippers in seconds. Do not carry large sums of money with you. Leave your passport at the hotel and take a copy with you unless you plan on cashing travelers checks. Make sure you have the numbers of your credit cards recorded somewhere safe so they can be cancelled quickly if needed. Thieves work very quickly! Be very careful if someone tells you that you have something on your back and to let them please help you. The scam is one person squirts the victim with mustard, ketchup or something yucky and then the other tells the victim about it. The victim puts his/ her parcels down to wipe off the offending substance and the second robber takes the parcels, camera, or purse.

It is H.O.L.A. policy to make every effort to keep volunteers fully informed as to the risks to healthand safety in traveling in Guatemala. We firmly believe it is prudent to follow practical precautions such as walking only in groups and never at night unless with a staff member, making sure any travel outside the city is accompanied by a trusted guide and police, and that others in the group know where you plan to go and when you plan to return.

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