Expat State of Affairs - Caution in the Air

Hola expats!

it seems a common recurrence to see the word "expat" plastered over every article in the paper - mainstream and grapevine media are issuing reports of deportations left, right and center for grievous traffic violations (which have not been fully explained) as well as frivolously minute issues such as not using the zebra crossing or not carrying ones Civil ID at all times.

I have even heard stories of policemen boarding public transport buses and requesting everyone with a drivers licence to stand up, after which they would proceed to snip their licence in two stating, "since you are taking public transport, you do not need it".


Although this is said to affect mostly expats of Arab & Asian origins, Westerners should take heed as well, especially given the fact that the English language is not always the cops forte.

One would think this is a wave that would most likely pass within a few weeks, however, please exercise extreme caution during the coming few weeks/months if you are unfortunate in not being able to travel for the summer:

1) carry your ID at all times
2) ensure that you abide by the law TO THE LETTER i.e. always wear your seatbelt, DO NOT TALK ON THE PHONE WHILST DRIVING.
3) steer clear of large gatherings.

this may be a temporary security scare, or it may be the way things are done in the long run. as we cannot be certain, we can only be cautious.

Stay safe expats.