Pickpocketing and bus theft in Algeria

Buses in Batna and public places in Constantine.

How it works

Thieves steal belongings from passengers on buses in Batna. Pickpocketing is also a concern in Constantine. A theft may happen without you noticing at the time.

Warning signs

Your wallet or phone is easy to reach in an open pocket.
Your bag is open or outside your view.

How to avoid it

Keep valuables in closed pockets or a zipped bag held in front of you.
Keep your bag with you throughout a bus journey.
Avoid showing large amounts of cash.
Check your belongings discreetly when boarding and leaving a bus.

If it happens to you

Move somewhere safe and check what is missing. Freeze any stolen cards and report the theft to police. Do not chase or confront a suspected thief.

Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or resist someone who threatens you.
Check whether anyone is hurt. Seek urgent medical help if needed.
Freeze stolen cards and secure affected accounts. If your phone is missing, use its remote lock feature if available.
Save the details you have: time, location, receipts, booking records, vehicle details and a description of what happened.
Report the incident to police. Ask for a written report or reference number for insurance.
Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate. Report any app-booked ride through the booking service too.

Where it happensBuses in Batna and public places in Constantine.Batna, Constantine

What travellers report

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

More scams in AlgeriaUnofficial guides: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the pickpocketing and bus theft scam in Algeria?

Thieves steal belongings from passengers on buses in Batna. Pickpocketing is also a concern in Constantine. A theft may happen without you noticing at the time.

How can I spot it early?

Your wallet or phone is easy to reach in an open pocket. Your bag is open or outside your view.

How do I avoid pickpocketing and bus theft in Algeria?

Keep valuables in closed pockets or a zipped bag held in front of you. Keep your bag with you throughout a bus journey. Avoid showing large amounts of cash. Check your belongings discreetly when boarding and leaving a bus.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Move somewhere safe and check what is missing. Freeze any stolen cards and report the theft to police. Do not chase or confront a suspected thief.

Where in Algeria does this happen?

Buses in Batna and public places in Constantine. It has been reported in Batna, Constantine.

How common is this scam in Algeria?

Common. Algeria has little tourist-scam culture, but taxi overcharging and unofficial guides can cause problems. Watch for theft on buses in Batna, and pickpocketing and theft by passing motorbike riders in Constantine. Robbery is also a concern in remote areas.

Are there similar scams in Algeria?

Yes: theft by passing motorbike riders, robbery in remote areas.

Who can I report it to?

Police: report theft, threats or suspected fraud. Give the location, time and any useful evidence. The police number listed for Algiers is 1548. Gendarmes: ask for help or local safety advice if you are unsure about your surroundings. No contact number is provided. Card issuer or bank: use the issuer's official app or contact number to freeze a stolen card and report any unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Algiers has many embassies. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its claims or assistance service. Keep receipts, evidence and the police report. Taxi booking service: if you booked through Yassir or Heetch, use the service's support channel and provide the trip details.

What number do I call in an emergency in Algeria?

Police — listed for Algiers: 1548, Fire department — listed for Algiers: 14, Paramedics — listed for Algiers: 0 213 23 54 44 28.

Reviewed by @snuck