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Here's how street crooks get your
wallet or purse, according
to the US
Embassy in Ankara's website:
"Pick- pockets tend to
operate in the areas of the city most
frequented by tourists. Some of the methods
of operation used by local pick-pockets
and purse-snatchers include:
- A staged "fight" or "chase
scene" on the sidewalk
that draws the attention of passersby—while
the thief reaches for wallets and
purses. Recently these actions have
increased in complexity utilizing
up to five men in a choreographed
chase/fight that culminates where
the victim is standing. Escape is
sometimes by a taxi working for the
thieves.
Defensive response: Immediately
move into a shop, doorway or away from
the attack site. Shout "police" if
necessary.
- A stranger spilling something
on the victim and then taking
his wallet while pretending to help
clean up the mess.
- An individual carrying boxes "bumps" into
the victim while an accomplice
takes the wallet.
- A stranger bumps into victim
saying "pardon" and
takes the money.
- In restaurants, women's purses
have been taken by utilizing
deception/distraction and by simply
snatching the purse and running.
- Teams of folksy-dressed
women and children block the victim's
route, distract, ask
questions, and/or request medical
assistance while the children reach
into the victim's purse taking the
money. The victim usually realizes
a robbery has occurred only later
after the thieves have departed the
area.
WARNING: If robbed do not
attempt to personally apprehend the
thief. At least one victim was
stabbed while attempting to get his
wallet back.
Visitors must pay attention to
their surroundings and be aware of
unusual behavior that may signal
a robbery attempt. Situational awareness
is imperative and the best defense.
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