Nazi skinheads
Nazi skinheads are so popular these days. Too popular! You can read about their "brave deeds" in almost any Russian and foreign news source.
They attack on the streets, in the metro and can even come out from your closet at night(at least that's what the journalists say.
Are they a threat? Absolutely. Can you avoid them? Of course! Follow my advice, exercise common sense and you'll be as safe as anywhere else.
The best way to prepare is to analyze common myths about the skinheads. Well, what are we waiting for?
Whites are less likely to become victims, but that's doesn't mean they can be 100% sure. Skinheads don't really need a reason to become nasty. They can attack you for speaking English, for looking at them, for being different - anything! Nobody's immune.
Wrong. It's true they prefer Tadjiks and Uzbeks, who often work in Moscow illegally and won't complain, but if you're a black person from Los-Angeles - beware. Those guys won't be checking your passport. In fact, if you're an American - you risk no less than illegal aliens from CIS. Russian nazi skinheads hate USA.
I can deal with them
Wrong again. They attack in groups and don't hesitate to use knives and metal rods. Plus, they are usually well-built.
I'm not trying to insult you, but if you really think you can handle them-think again. Unless, of course, you're an expert martial artist who wants to teach the punks a lesson.
I wish I was one...
Sometimes they dress up normal. As a rule of thumb, stay away from small groups of teenagers who misbehave. Especialy if they're drunk. Especially if you feel threatened. Trust your intuition. Don't be a hero. It's better to take another train then to end up in a hospital!
Don't rely on the police. They aren't always there, and sometimes they prefer not to interfere. If the nazis attack you - run. Giving them your things won't help - it's not your money they're after.
To conclude, the best thing to deal with Russian neo nazis is to avoid them. Stay in the city center, keep away from the slums, don't wander in Moscow when it's late, and most important - don't use metro after 10PM. Read this page for more tips.
Remember - this is only theory! Be cool! Any place is dangerous in a way, from Maldives to Mogadishu. The point is to be aware of the treats and act accordingly. Now when you're armed with knowledge, you'll have a great, safe vacation!
Related posts:
- Moscow bombings.
- GIBDD - the Moscow Road Police Force
- Dealing with Moscow police part II
- Moscow survival skills - page 2
- Moscow survival skills
- Protecting yourself from Russian mobsters
- Moscow traffic survival guide
- Dealing with Moscow police.
- Islamic terrorism in Russia - is it really THAT scary?
