Crime in Venezuela

The US Department of State reports that tens of thousands of US citizens safely visit Venezuela each year but points out that violent crime in Venezuela is pervasive, both in the capital, Caracas, and in the interior. 

According to the nongovernmental organization Venezuelan Violence Observatory, there were 21,692 homicides in Venezuela in 2012, amounting to a rate of 73 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants, among the highest in the world. In Caracas, the homicide rate is even higher, at 122 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants.

Kidnappings are also a serious concern throughout the country. In 2012, 583 kidnappings were reported to the authorities, but it is estimated that roughly 80% of kidnappings go unreported.

Along Venezuela’s western border, there is cross-border violence, drug trafficking and smuggling.

US government personnel and their families in Venezuela are restricted in when, where and how they may move around. For example, they may transit the “Red Zone” in Caracas only in daytime and provided they stay on the city’s highways. For details, visit www.travel.state.gov and “Country Specific Information” on Venezuela.