Nobody knows for sure which city is has the dubious distinction of being the “mugging capital of the world”. Even Google throws up several guesses that range from Rio de Janeiro to Cali to Singapore and New York. But these days it’s the Brazilian city which is being given bearing this unflattering title, thanks to some high-profile robberies mostly involving foreign athletes and officials. Also, inept handlings of delicate situations by the police and other public officials have further damaged the city’s reputation.