Pick pockets are on the rise.

A group of women were captured on video robbing several people in the Calidonia sector by real time surveillance cameras announced the National Police.

The women were followed in real time by cameras.  The authorities call this type of theft ’cancheras’  dedicated to the theft requiring great dexterity to be able to steal undetected merchandise in shops as well as wallets and cell phones  from unsuspecting people on the street.

The women walk mostly in groups to protect themselves but mostly to use others as cover and to distract the victims.

The mayor of the capital, José Blandon confirmed that they will increase coverage of video surveillance. According to the authorities, there are more than eleven areas which are presently  being  monitored by hundreds of devices in the city and they want to implement the process in more areas such as in San Migelito.

Most people assume pickpockets are sketchy looking men, but a large number of pickpockets are actually young girls and boys or well dressed individuals. Pickpockets usually target people in tourist areas, public transportation, restaurants, beaches or retail stores.On the metro, people tend to zone out while they are talking or texting on their phone. If standing near the doors, thieves will reach and snatch your phone as the doors close. Escalator back-up caused by thieves stopping at the top causing the bump and lift. technique. 

Be mindful of your surroundings, limit what you carry, use a zippered purse, wear a money belt, secure your backpack and do not leave your phone on the table at a restaurant  or an outside cafe for easy picking.

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