Although the crime rate in Kiribati is low, visitors should not be complacent regarding their personal safety or protecting valuables.
Petty crime and alcohol related incidents are the most common problems. Women should take extra precautions if alone ashore after dark.
Standard security precautions should be taken although crimes against yachts are rare.
Crimes against visiting yachts are rare in this usually safe and friendly island group as there are not many visiting yachts. However, there have been a couple of incidents over the years, so cruisers should be wary, in populated areas, of leaving their boats when no other occupied yachts are nearby to keep an eye on things.
In March 2024, thieves targetted a yacht in the anchorage area at Tarawa and a number of items were stolen while the crew slept onboard. However, the crew reported that local police later recovered all the stolen items.
For emergencies in Tarawa:
Last updated: July 2025
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