Scam in GambiaTheft
Bag snatching in Gambia
How it works
A thief grabs a bag and takes it. Crowded areas are places to take extra care.
Warning signs
- Your bag is loosely held or left unattended.
- Crowding makes it difficult to watch your belongings.
How to avoid it
- Carry your bag securely and keep it close.
- Keep valuables out of sight.
- Do not leave bags unattended.
If it happens to you
Do not fight over the bag or chase the thief. Reach a safe place, report the theft and block any missing cards.
- Get to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
- Check what is missing. If cards or a phone were taken, freeze cards and secure your accounts as soon as possible.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, amount lost and descriptions. Save receipts, messages and booking details.
- Report theft, robbery or fraud to police when safe. Ask for a written report or reference number for insurance.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing, you are detained or you need help finding legal support. Avoid using an embassy call as a threat during a confrontation.
- Notify your insurer and any relevant bank or booking provider. Keep copies of reports and records, and do not pay anyone promising guaranteed recovery.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Travel blogTravel Safe – Abroad reader commentsIs Gambia Safe for Travel RIGHT NOW? (2026 Safety Rating)A reader reports being assaulted and stabbed during an attempted bag snatching in Kololi in November 2021 and alleges that police sought money instead of investigating.Read on Travel blog
- Redditr/Gambia2026Solo female travelling in the Gambia?A commenter discussing solo travel warns of a small risk of bag or phone snatching and recommends using a crossbody bag.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the bag snatching scam in Gambia?
A thief grabs a bag and takes it. Crowded areas are places to take extra care.
How can I spot it early?
Your bag is loosely held or left unattended. Crowding makes it difficult to watch your belongings.
How do I avoid bag snatching in Gambia?
Carry your bag securely and keep it close. Keep valuables out of sight. Do not leave bags unattended.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not fight over the bag or chase the thief. Reach a safe place, report the theft and block any missing cards.
Where in Gambia does this happen?
Crowded areas, including Albert Market, ferry terminals and transport hubs It has been reported in Banjul.
How common is this scam in Gambia?
Occasional. Tourists in The Gambia can face persistent touts, requests for money, fake hotel staff and offers of help that lead to unexpected fees. Other risks include drug-related bribe traps, demands for passport-stamping bribes at borders, and pickpocketing or bag snatching in crowded parts of Banjul.
Are there similar scams in Gambia?
Yes: pickpocketing in crowds.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery or suspected fraud once you are safe. Give the location, time, loss and any evidence. Ask for a written report or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's official app or verified contact details to freeze stolen cards and report any unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use official contact details for help with a missing passport, detention or finding legal support. Seek help safely after a confrontation rather than threatening officials with an embassy call. Travel insurer: contact the claims service using your policy details. Keep receipts, police records and evidence of the loss. Hotel reception: contact reception directly to check anyone claiming to work for the hotel. Tell staff if someone is using the hotel's name to approach guests.
Reviewed by @snuck