Madagascar: Former Malaysian honorary consul murdered August 26

Event

The honorary consul of Malaysia, Said Hussein Ali Raza, was assassinated in a drive-by shooting in front the Indian embassy in Antananarivo on Saturday, August 26. Reports say Ali Raza was driving his private vehicle when he was shot at least three times by gunmen on a passing motorcycle. The assailants immediately fled the scene. Unofficial reports say the assassination was a part of intracommunal violence within the Indo-Pakistani community.

Context

In general, crime rates are high across Madagascar, and have been on the rise in recent years. Organized crime is not a major issue and the most significant criminal threat to travelers is petty theft, though more serious crimes including home invasions and armed muggings do occur. In response to the high crime rate, police conduct random checks throughout the country, and often require travelers to show original identity documentation.

Advice

All those present in Madagascar are advised to be on guard against criminal activity, to avoid traveling by foot after nightfall, and to maintain a low profile as criminals may target foreigners due to their perceived affluence. Always carry your passport and place copies of important documents (e.g., passports, visas, travel tickets, a list of important phone numbers, etc.) in a safe place. Do not offer resistance if assaulted and do not look your attacker(s) directly in the eye.