You should avoid these neighbourhoods — especially after dark — unless you know exactly where you’re going and why.
1. Taman Pelangi — The Notorious JK Bahru Hotspot
Avoid it because:
- Identified by Johor police as a crime hotspot with a history of street crime and violent incidents.
- Most notorious incident: a stabbing and hit‑and‑run murder at a petrol station that went viral online. (Mothership)
What happens here:
- Robberies and snatch thefts targeting drivers and pedestrians.
- Opportunistic crimes around late night cafes and side streets.
Risk Level: (High)
Best Avoided: Around petrol stations and night‑time car parks.
2. Jalan Wong Ah Fook (City Centre) — Busy Street, Dangerous After Dark
Avoid it because:
- Major thoroughfare and red‑light district after dark.
- Reports of motorcycle snatch thefts and targeting of lone pedestrians. (Discover Johor Bahru)
What happens here:
- Crowded, high‑traffic strip lined with restaurants and nightlife — a magnet for opportunistic thieves.
- Violent street crime has been recorded, including an attack with a cleaver near the shops. (The Straits Times)
Risk Level: (High)
Best Avoided: Side alleys and pavements at night.
3. Taman Molek — Residential but High Incidents
Avoid it because:
- Area frequently mentioned in crime reports for kidnap attempts and explosive-related incidents. (TheSmartLocal)
- Multiple news stories highlight serious offences, including alleged kidnapping and fire‑related attacks.
What happens here:
- Residential areas with reported attacks on homes and street crime.
- Police presence exists, but crime reports show repeated incidents.
Risk Level: (Moderate to High)
Best Avoided: Quiet zones at night.
4. Stulang Laut — Tourist Area With a Dark History
Avoid it because:
- Known years ago for motorcycle snatch thefts and fatal confrontations on seaside streets. (TheSmartLocal)
- While still a popular dining and ferry area, past violent incidents have made parts of this suburb unsafe late at night.
What happens here:
- Snatch thefts targeting diners and ferry commuters.
- Poorly lit backstreets are a common concern.
Risk Level: (Moderate to High)
Best Avoided: Seafood eateries late at night and unlit streets.
5. Larkin Bus Terminal & Its Surroundings — Crowds + Opportunists
Avoid it because:
- Large crowds and delayed buses make it a pickpocket and petty crime magnet. (TheSmartLocal)
What happens here:
- Scams and pick‑pocketing targeting travellers with luggage.
- Unlicensed taxi touts and disputes over pricing can escalate.
Risk Level: (Moderate)
Best Avoided: Waiting alone after 8 PM.
Bonus: Historical Hotspots Still Worth Caution
These areas have been repeatedly flagged in safety advisories and older crime reports — exercise extra caution if you must go:
Taman Century / Taman Tampoi — Listed among high‑crime zones in historical hotspot lists. (DISCOVER JB // 盡在新山 | 新山美食 新山最新资讯 –)
Taman Sentosa — Bars and nightlife linked to petty and violent crime, particularly late. (DISCOVER JB // 盡在新山 | 新山美食 新山最新资讯 –)
Taman Johor Jaya — Mixed shop and residential area with past crime reports. (DISCOVER JB // 盡在新山 | 新山美食 新山最新资讯 –)
Safety Tips If You Must Go
Stay in groups after dark — lone pedestrians are far more likely to be targeted. (Cities Insider)
Use ride‑hailing (Grab/Taxi) instead of walking late — especially around busy or ill‑lit spots. (TheSmartLocal)
Keep valuables secure and out of sight — snatch thefts are often opportunistic. (Numbeo)
Contact police immediately at 999 if you feel unsafe or are a victim of theft. (Cities Insider)
Final Word
Johor Bahru has many vibrant places worth visiting, but some neighbourhoods carry a significantly higher crime risk — especially after dark.
When locals and long‑time visitors consistently advise avoidance of specific districts, it’s worth listening.
Stay alert, plan your routes, and always err on the side of safety.
