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In 2004 this sign (see
the picture on the right—>)
was posted in some Turkish sleeping
cars warning travelers (but only
travelers able to read Turkish!) of
the danger from robbers posing
as "friendly travelers."
This appears to be a sleeping-car
variation of the "New
Traveling Companions" scam that
has bedevilled a few single males in Istanbul for
years.
It may be that the robbers concentrate
on Turkish travelers and leave foreigners
alone, but don't bet on it.
Read my description of the "New
Traveling Companions" scam and follow
the precautions.
By the way, I usually travel by sleeper
train whenever possible in Turkey,
and I have never encountered this scam
personally. I do not intend to stop
using the comfortable, convenient sleeper
trains because of occasional incidents
which, I believe, I can avoid.
Here's a translation of
the notice:
"Recently some persons with bad
intentions have approached our passengers
and:
"Offered them food or drink containing
sleeping drugs, and have then stolen
their valuables.
"In addition to our official
security measures [we ask that]:
"Our esteemed passengers be alert
[to this danger], and report any suspicious
activity to the train crew.
"We wish you a pleasant journey." TCDD
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