According to the China 2016 Crime and Safety report, Shanghai is generally safe for and from foreigners; however, tourists are still advised to be watchful. (Photo : Getty Images)
With the fast development of Shanghai, China’s largest city, its tourism has been booming the past decade. It is now considered to be the second top tourist destination in China.
Among the famous tourist spots in Shanghai are People’s Square, Jin Mao Tower, Jade Buddha Temple, Shanghai Disneyland, and the city’s nightlife district.
According to the China 2016 Crime and Safety report, Shanghai is generally safe for and from foreigners relative to its size, population, and tourism rate.
Nonetheless, foreign tourists are reminded to be careful and alert at all times, especially while walking on the streets and partying at nightclubs.
According to the report, violent crimes such as homicide, robbery, and burglary occur but on low rates in comparison to the city’s population which is around 24 million.
Meanwhile, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, credit card fraud, and financial scams are more rampant and occasionally targeted to foreigners.
Among the petty crimes, pickpocketing is the most common. When walking at streets, foreign tourists should keep their bags and wallets secured.
They should also be careful of being victimized by scammers. It is good to know basic Chinese phrases, especially those that are money related, in order to avoid fraud.
Cases of fraud and theft should be reported to the police immediately because they would less likely entertain reports when the tourist have already returned to their homeland.
In the case of foreigners committing crimes, only a few major incidents have been reported. Foreigners are usually arrested for drug-related crimes and bar fights.
If foreigners want to stay out of trouble in Shanghai, they should be careful in going to bars, clubs, and restaurants where most drug deals, violence, and pickpocketing occur late at night.
Police officers roam around Shanghai’s nightlife district at night so keeping an eye out is enough to keep foreigners away from perpetrating or being victims of crimes.
