South Africa came under heavy criticism over security fears Monday amid mounting reports of crime striking players and fans during the Confederations Cup. Police are investigating claims that the Johannesburg hotel rooms of five Egyptian players were robbed of about $2,000, while Brazil said cash and a jacket were also stolen from two of their rooms in Pretoria. There have been a number of minor incidents involving journalists and fans who have complained of not feeling safe or of encounters with corrupt police asking for bribes. Visitors have also been left feeling jumpy after the hijacking of four British tourists by armed men who made off with their car soon after arriving in Johannesburg to watch rugby matches. Security is one of the biggest issues facing South Africa as it prepares to host next year's World Cup, when an estimated 450,000 fans will visit the country for the monthlong tournament. South Africa has one of the worst murder rates in the world with at least 50 people being killed a day, and government and football officials are desperate to counter negative perceptions of the country. Deputy security minister Fikile Mbalula downplayed concerns Monday, saying the incidents were isolated and did not constitute any “major breach of security.” “I want to salute men and women in blue,” Mbalula said. “They have outdone themselves in ensuring that everyone enjoys the Confederations Cup in a very peaceful manner.” Mbalula said the incident involving the Egyptians was unfortunate but warned against it being “blown out” of proportion. FIFA has said that it was pleased with the tournament so far and that it trusts local authorities to keep fans safe. “We are very happy with security in general and especially the police,” said Danny Jordaan, the head of the local organizing committee. Jordaan said that there had been thefts from hotels in Germany during the last World Cup and that there were few cities in the world that could boast of being free of petty crimes. He was at pains to say that perceptions of South Africa as a dangerous, crime-ridden place were “totally wrong.” The government has committed about $130 million to beef up security in South Africa for the World Cup, Jordaan said. Plans include increasing police numbers and training for the World Cup.
