By Falis Hubsey
Robbery and attempted murder in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia
This is a story about trip in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia for 2 weeks ago which ended robbery and attempt murder.
I went to Addis Ababa 01.11.2011 for a holiday. My litle sister and i went to a park near by where we lived and took a camera to take pictures in the park. The park is located in Saris. To enter the park you have to buy tickets, which we did. It was a lady who sold tickets, by her side sat four young men. There was also a guard. After a few minutes we were attacked by four men, the four men who sat next to the lady who sold the tickets. They brought with them huge knives and stones. They overtook it all we had with us and relax us physically without major damage. We came back after this guard, he said there is nothing I can do for you, and went while we were there and were trembling and shocked. The 4 menn, the lady and the guard were team and working together. We run away to save our lives.
From my experience I would recommend people who travel to Addis Ababa to watch out and be careful. People are interested in making money from tourists. Most people will rob or steal what you have if given the chance. People are full of lies, most young boys go with big knives and other dirty, sharp objects.
Avoid young boys or men in herds. Avoid to walk alone in parks or in the dark. You watch out when when taking buses or taxis, everyone is looking for your wallet, mobile and other valuable items you have with you. Avoid talking on the mobile when you're out, they will take it from you in seconds. If an accident does happen, do not try to deny. they can kill you.
Addis Ababa is the dirty city, with poor people, full of robbers and liars.
As a tourist you have to pay 5-6 times as much. So remember to bargain prices.
I hope the story will help others to avoid what happened to us.
With best regards Falis Hubsey