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‘Be extra vigilant’: Britons issued Turkey travel warning over assaults in coastal tourist areas

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6 months ago

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‘Be extra vigilant’: Britons issued Turkey travel warning over assaults in coastal tourist areas

Britons in Turkey have been given an important safety. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) provided new information on sexual assaults in the country.

This comes as Britons were given a fresh warning about holidaying in a popular African destination as British nationals may be “targets” for terrorism.

Holidaymakers were told: “In 2023, 42 cases of sexual assault, including rape, were reported to British consular staff in Turkey.

“Most cases happened during summer holidays in coastal tourist areas.

‘Most cases happened during summer holidays in coastal tourist areas’

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“Crimes were committed at night by someone the victim met during the day, including hotel and spa workers.

“There have also been sexual attacks on minors visiting toilet facilities alone. Be extra vigilant in these situations.”

The FCDO provides guidance on safety and security in Turkey, with detailed information on terrorism, the political situation, crime, laws and cultural differences, outdoor activities and adventure tourism, transport risks, and extreme weather and natural disasters.

To stay safe from street robbery and pickpocketing, the FCDO advised: “Street robbery and pick-pocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. Be aware of your personal belongings and make sure they are always secure.”

To minimise your risk of drink and food spiking, “buy your own drinks and always keep sight of them”. Britons were warned: “Be wary of strangers approaching you to change money, taking you to a restaurant or nightclub, or offering you food and drink these could be spiked.”

The FCDO continued: “In a small number of cases, counterfeit branded bottles of alcohol have caused deaths of tourists. If you have any concerns, ask for advice from your tour operator or the Turkish authorities.”

In terms of vehicle safety, “accepting lifts from strangers can be dangerous”. Holidaymakers should “find a registered taxi and note the registration number before entering”.

Britons should consult the FCDO’s Turkey guidance on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, regional risks, health, and getting help in the case of an emergency.

The FCDO advises against all travel to some parts of Turkey.

Turkey-Syria border

Britons were warned: “FCDO advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria.

“Fighting in Syria continues in areas close to the Turkish border and there remains a heightened risk of terrorism in the region.

“Due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, roads in Hatay Province leading towards the border may be subject to closure.”

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The FCDO advises against all travel in some parts of Turkey

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Sirnak city

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Sirnak city.

Hakkari Province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Hakkari Province.

Holidaymakers were told: “This advice is due to the heightened risk of terrorism in the region. If you’re undertaking essential travel to Sirnak city or Hakkari Province, take extreme care.”

Mount Ararat

Britons were told: “Mount Ararat, in Ağrı Province, is a special military zone. You must have permission from the Doğubayazıt government office, and pay a fee in the local Governor’s Office. If visiting with a travel agent or tour group, confirm with them whether you need an individual permit.

“Take extra care if you’re travelling to this area. Keep up to date with local media and follow the advice of the local authorities.”

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