Mobile phones, necklaces, handbags, watches… violent robberies and snatch-and-run thefts can, unfortunately, happen at any time. To protect yourself, following a few prevention tips and developing certain reflexes can help. However, when a robbery cannot be avoided, it is also vital to know how to react.
Precautions to take:
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in a crowd.
- If possible, when out at night, try to be accompanied in order to reduce the risk of a robbery.
- Inform a trusted person if you are out alone at night.
- Prefer a bag that sits close to your body, either worn over the shoulder or fastened around the waist (rather than a backpack), and carried at the front of your body. Make sure it is securely fastened.
- Always keep your personal belongings, such as mobile phones, wallets, etc., safely tucked away, especially when you are sitting on a terrace and keep them as well within reach and eyesight.
When a theft with violence or threats can't be avoided:
- Try to remain calm.
- Do not let yourself be provoked and try to de-escalate the situation.
- Do not confront the attacker physically, but confront him verbally in an assertive manner.
- If you can escape the situation without putting yourself in danger, do so, even if it means handing over your valuables. Material items are not worth risking being assaulted.
- If possible, alert passers-by by shouting for help. Even if this may not deter the thief, they may sometimes be caught or slowed down as they flee, or it may prompt a passers-by to call the police.
- Ask those present to come to your aid by addressing them directly (e.g.: “ You over there, in the blue coat, call the police!”).
- Use whistles or any noise-generating device to scare off potential attackers, also enabling you to benefit from the surprise effect and make others aware of your situation.
You have been the victim of theft with violence or threats:
- Call the police emergency number 113 immediately and answer the call taker's questions, trying to be as accurate, clear and complete as possible.
- Provide every detail relating to the attacker’s description (clothing, distinctive signs, physical build), the objects he or she touched, the direction of escape and the means of escape (vehicle, make, model, number plate, colour ...).
- If you have the opportunity, talk to possible witnesses and ask for their contact details. The information provided by them is valuable and important for the police investigation.
- File a complaint and remain available to the Police for any further questions.
In case of threats, danger or other emergencies, please call the emergency number 113.