As with other developing countries, crime rates are high, and visitors will be encouraged to keep their wits about them so as to avoid falling victim to pickpockets or muggers.
Exactly why SM can stare down an armed mugger without shaking, but becomes terrified of suffocation can only be speculated as the case continues to be a bit of a mystery.
She was wearing her good anorak, her handbag slung satchel-style over her shoulder ('Harder for muggers to snatch it') and her hair styled into soft waves around her neck.
It is true that mugging is not completely gratuitous for the mugger because it carries the risk of criminal prosecution and social stigma, among other costs.