10 Mar 2006

Australia warns about rising crime in Samoa

2:18 pm on 10 March 2006

Australia has updated its travel advisories for some Pacific countries and now says petty crime, particularly theft, is prevalent in Samoa.

The foreign ministry in Canberra says in Samoa burglaries, sometimes accompanied by violence, are becoming an increasing problem.

It says there has also been an increase in drug- related serious crime, including violent assaults and shootings.

Australia also warns that robbery, theft and violent assault occur in Fiji, including against tourists and expatriate residents.

It also notes that there are ongoing tensions between the Fiji government and the military.