Scam in NigerTheft
Cutting handbag straps in Niger
How it works
A thief cuts a bag strap, takes the bag and runs.
Warning signs
- Your bag hangs loosely where someone can easily reach it.
- Someone moves unusually close to your bag.
How to avoid it
- Carry only essential valuables.
- Keep your bag close to your body and in view.
- Avoid displaying cash or expensive equipment.
If it happens to you
Do not chase the thief into an isolated area. Get somewhere safe, block stolen cards and report the theft.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase thieves or resist armed attackers.
- Check for injuries and seek medical help if needed.
- Block stolen cards and contact your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, booking details and messages. Write down the time, place and a description of what happened.
- Report theft, fraud or violence to police when safe. Ask for a written report if available.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing or you are stranded. Notify your travel insurer and keep copies of your records.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the cutting handbag straps scam in Niger?
A thief cuts a bag strap, takes the bag and runs.
How can I spot it early?
Your bag hangs loosely where someone can easily reach it. Someone moves unusually close to your bag.
How do I avoid cutting handbag straps in Niger?
Carry only essential valuables. Keep your bag close to your body and in view. Avoid displaying cash or expensive equipment.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not chase the thief into an isolated area. Get somewhere safe, block stolen cards and report the theft.
Where in Niger does this happen?
Markets and streets in Niamey It has been reported in Niamey.
How common is this scam in Niger?
Occasional. Scams and fraud are common in Niger. Visitors may face fake requests for emergency money, inflated taxi fares, poor exchange rates and pressure to pay for unwanted help. Pickpocketing, bag theft and armed robbery also occur; outside Niamey, kidnapping and attacks on vehicles can be much more serious risks.
Are there similar scams in Niger?
Yes: bandit carjackings and kidnappings north of Agadez, market pickpocketing, robbery at ravine crossings.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, fraud, robbery or an attack when it is safe to do so. Give the location, time, description and any evidence. Ask for a written report if available. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen, you are stranded or you need help after a serious incident. Your card issuer: use the issuer's official app or contact number to block missing cards and report unauthorised transactions. Airport staff: ask staff for help if someone will not return your luggage or you feel threatened by an unwanted porter. Your travel insurer: report the incident through its official claims channel. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of your losses.
Reviewed by @snuck