Bag snatching from passing motorcycles in Dominican Republic

Roadsides and pavements in Santo Domingo.

How it works

A rider on a moped or motorcycle passes close to a pedestrian and grabs their bag or purse.

Warning signs

Your bag hangs on the side nearest passing traffic.
You are walking or standing close to the road.

How to avoid it

Keep your bag on the side away from traffic.
Keep a firm hold on it while walking.
Leave space between yourself and passing vehicles.
Avoid displaying valuables.

If it happens to you

Do not chase the motorcycle or fight over the bag if you could be dragged. Get somewhere safe and report the theft.

Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or confront an aggressive group.
If you are threatened, injured or in immediate danger, call 911.
Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about unauthorized payments. Secure any accounts on a stolen phone.
Save receipts, messages, booking details and a short account of what happened. Record the time and place.
Report the incident to tourist police or police. Request a report or reference number for insurance.
Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate.

Where it happensRoadsides and pavements in Santo Domingo.Santo Domingo

What travellers report

Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.

More scams in Dominican RepublicTheft from accommodation: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the bag snatching from passing motorcycles scam in Dominican Republic?

A rider on a moped or motorcycle passes close to a pedestrian and grabs their bag or purse.

How can I spot it early?

Your bag hangs on the side nearest passing traffic. You are walking or standing close to the road.

How do I avoid bag snatching from passing motorcycles in Dominican Republic?

Keep your bag on the side away from traffic. Keep a firm hold on it while walking. Leave space between yourself and passing vehicles. Avoid displaying valuables.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Do not chase the motorcycle or fight over the bag if you could be dragged. Get somewhere safe and report the theft.

Where in Dominican Republic does this happen?

Roadsides and pavements in Santo Domingo. It has been reported in Santo Domingo.

How common is this scam in Dominican Republic?

Occasional. The Dominican Republic is generally safe, but visitors can face persistent touts, inflated shopping prices and pressure over taxi choices. Other risks include people posing as resort staff, demands for protection money, motorcycle bag snatching and theft from accommodation.

Who can I report it to?

Tourist police / Politur: contact this agency if you encounter problems. Ask your hotel or a staffed business to help you reach it. National Police in Santo Domingo: the station is at Av. Leopoldo Navarro #402. The central line is +1 809-682-2151. Police in Punta Cana and Bavaro: call +1 809 686-8227. Stations are next to the Sitrabapu bus terminal in Bavaro and at Galerias Punta Cana near the airport. Card issuer: use your banking app or a verified contact number to freeze the card and report unauthorized charges. Accommodation management: report room theft or someone claiming to be a hotel employee. Ask management to preserve relevant records. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help replacing a stolen passport. Travel insurer: contact the claims service and provide receipts, evidence and any police report.

What number do I call in an emergency in Dominican Republic?

Emergency assistance: 911.

Reviewed by @snuck