Scam in FijiTheft
Petty theft and pickpocketing in Fiji
How it works
Thieves take money or belongings. Pickpockets are reported in both Suva and Nadi, but no specific distraction method is described.
Warning signs
- Your bag is open or easy for someone else to reach.
- Your phone or wallet is left unattended.
How to avoid it
- Keep bags closed and close to your body.
- Keep your phone and wallet out of easy reach.
- Carry only the money and valuables you need.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe. Report the theft to police and block any stolen cards.
- Get somewhere safe. If threatened, do not fight over money or belongings.
- Seek medical help promptly if you are injured or have been assaulted.
- Block stolen cards and secure any accounts accessible from a stolen phone.
- Write down what happened. Keep receipts, messages, payment records and useful identifying details.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a report reference or written record if available.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate for help replacing it.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Government advice2026Fiji travel adviceCanada reports frequent pickpocketing and bag snatching targeting tourists, particularly in downtown Suva and Nadi.Read on Government advice
- Government advice2026FijiNew Zealand reports bag snatching against visitors and theft of passports and unattended luggage at Nadi and Nausori airports.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the petty theft and pickpocketing scam in Fiji?
Thieves take money or belongings. Pickpockets are reported in both Suva and Nadi, but no specific distraction method is described.
How can I spot it early?
Your bag is open or easy for someone else to reach. Your phone or wallet is left unattended.
How do I avoid petty theft and pickpocketing in Fiji?
Keep bags closed and close to your body. Keep your phone and wallet out of easy reach. Carry only the money and valuables you need.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe. Report the theft to police and block any stolen cards.
Where in Fiji does this happen?
Urban areas, with most crime reported in the outer suburbs away from resort areas. It has been reported in Suva, Nadi.
How common is this scam in Fiji?
Common. Tourist scams in Fiji include overpriced souvenirs, pushy sellers, misleading free offers and taxi fares that cost more than a metered ride. Pickpocketing and petty theft also occur, while more serious robbery is a concern after dark, especially in Suva and the outer suburbs of Suva and Nadi.
Are there similar scams in Fiji?
Yes: group mugging, small belongings taken as borrowing, home invasion and robbery.
Who can I report it to?
Police in Nadi: there is a police station in the centre of Queens Road. Take any receipts, incident notes and identifying details you have. Local police elsewhere in Fiji: report theft, robbery, threats or assault to local police. Ask hotel staff to help you find a station if needed. Police responses can sometimes be limited. Village chief: if a small item has been taken as borrowing in a village, speak with the chief. They may help arrange its return. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or verified contact details to block stolen cards and report unauthorised payments. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact in your policy. Keep receipts and any police report details. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport or a serious incident.
Reviewed by @snuck