Scam in MoroccoTheft
Motorbike drive-by theft in Morocco
How it works
A thief on a passing motorbike snatches exposed valuables.
Warning signs
- Your phone or bag is exposed beside traffic.
How to avoid it
- Keep valuables hidden near the road.
- Carry your bag away from passing traffic.
- Step into a shop or away from the kerb to use your phone.
If it happens to you
Do not chase the motorbike. Move somewhere safe, check for injuries and report the theft.
- Get to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or physically resist a robbery.
- If you are hurt or suspect drugging, seek medical help immediately.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about unauthorised payments. Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible.
- Save receipts, booking messages and payment records. Write down what happened, where and when.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number for your insurer.
- Contact your insurer, booking provider or embassy as needed. Use the evidence you saved when requesting help or a refund.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/Morocco2024Phone stolen in MarrakechA tourist reports two motorcycle riders approaching from behind and snatching their phone while they walked through Marrakech with luggage.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/Morocco2023They tried to rob me in MoroccoThe poster describes two men on a motorbike attempting to take their phone and bag while they checked Google Maps in Casablanca.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the motorbike drive-by theft scam in Morocco?
A thief on a passing motorbike snatches exposed valuables.
How can I spot it early?
Your phone or bag is exposed beside traffic.
How do I avoid motorbike drive-by theft in Morocco?
Keep valuables hidden near the road. Carry your bag away from passing traffic. Step into a shop or away from the kerb to use your phone.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not chase the motorbike. Move somewhere safe, check for injuries and report the theft.
Where in Morocco does this happen?
City streets It has been reported in Casablanca.
How common is this scam in Morocco?
Occasional. Morocco is generally safe, but tourists often face persistent touts, false guides and inflated prices. Marrakech needs extra care, while Fez has elaborate guide and tour scams; pickpocketing and taxi overcharging also occur in several cities.
Are there similar scams in Morocco?
Yes: pickpocketing.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery, threats or fraud. Give the location, time and any receipts or messages. Ask for a report or reference number. Tourist police at Djemaa El-Fna, Marrakech: approach a patrol for help with harassment, intimidation or a disputed food-stall bill. Airport security at Marrakech-Menara Airport: ask for help if an airport ATM retains your card. Bank or card issuer: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a card, report unauthorised payments or question undisclosed ATM fees. Accommodation, booking provider or tour business: report the problem through the official reception desk or booking channel. Provide the agreed price and evidence of what was delivered. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact in your policy. Keep police reports, receipts and medical records. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Morocco?
Police — listed for Marrakech: 19, Ambulance / Fire — listed for Marrakech: 15.
Reviewed by @snuck