Exercise a high degree of caution in the Republic of Congo because of crime and the ongoing insecurity in some neighbouring countries. Avoid non-essential travel to the Pool Department, except Brazzaville, due to occasional military operations against rebel militias in the region.
Avoid non-essential travel to the area within 50 km of the border with the Central African Republic because of the presence of criminal gangs and armed militias. Back to top. Congolese authorities occasionally carry out security operations against rebel militias in certain regions of Pool, a department in southeast Congo. Criminals often commit crimes and acts of banditry, especially kidnapping for ransom. Attacks on private and collective transportation vehicles are common, particularly on the roads linking Brazzaville—Kinkala—Mindouli and Mayama—Mindouli.
Criminal activity occurs, especially at night. Criminals are sometimes armed. Street crimes such as muggings and purse snatchings occur, particularly in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire. Thieves target the homes of foreigners.
Local police resources are limited. Response times to emergency calls are often very slow. In robbery cases, legal recourse is limited. Demonstrations occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Mass gatherings large-scale events. Road conditions and road safety are mostly poor throughout the country.
Accidents causing fatalities are common. Drivers are extremely aggressive and often drive at excessive speeds. Congo has several highways, including National Route 1 between Brazzaville and the southern port city of Pointe-Noire, and National Route 2 between Brazzaville and the northern town of Ouesso, on the border with Cameroon. Avoid travelling by car between Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire due to attacks on vehicles, incidents of harassment and intimidation, and arrests along the route.
