1. CHILE
A report released by the Ministry of the Interior indicated that muggings increased almost 20 percent during the first four months of the year compared to the same period last year. Muggings were actually down in some places around the country, but a dramatic increase in crime in Santiago pushed the national rate up. Some politicians speculate that muggings have increased because of the decision eight months ago to change the legal classification of the crime from a felony to a misdemeanor, an action taken to reduce pressure on the overcrowded prison system. Crime in general increased throughout the country, with Santiago the most crime-ridden area.
2. ITALY
Naples and surrounding towns have thousands of tons of garbage accumulating with nowhere to put it. The last remaining landfill accepting garbage was due to be filled within days and new dump sites have been blocked by citizens concerned about environmental damage. The crisis is affecting Naples and the historic site of Pompeii among other areas. Officials have vowed to resolve the issue in a few weeks, but meanwhile locals have turned to burning the garbage heaps, creating potentially hazardous air pollution.
3. LAOS
The U.S. Embassy in Laos reported news of sporadic fighting between government forces and rebels in the area of Vang Vieng in northern Vientiane province and warned against ground travel north from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang.
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Compiled from various news services and travel sources. For the latest on world conditions, check the State Department’s automated service at 888-407-4747; fax 202-647-3000; travel.state.gov.
