Scam in SenegalTheft
Pickpocketing and the leg-grab distraction in Senegal
How it works
Pickpockets target crowded places. In a two-person method, one person grabs your leg or clothing while another takes items from your pocket on the other side.
Warning signs
- Someone suddenly grabs your leg or clothing.
- Another person presses close while your attention is elsewhere.
How to avoid it
- Use pockets that fasten with buttons or snaps.
- Keep your shirt over your pockets.
- Carry only the cash you need at markets.
- If someone grabs you, watch your belongings and the person on your other side.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe. Check what is missing, block stolen cards and report the theft. Do not chase the thief.
- Get to a safe, busy place. If someone threatens you, protect yourself before your belongings.
- Check what is missing. Contact your card issuer promptly to block stolen cards and report unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, messages and booking details. Write down the time, location, description and any vehicle details.
- Report theft, robbery or extortion to police. Ask for a written report or reference number.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is stolen, you are detained or you need consular help.
- Tell your insurer and any relevant hotel or transport operator. Keep copies of reports and expenses.
Questions
What is the pickpocketing and the leg-grab distraction scam in Senegal?
Pickpockets target crowded places. In a two-person method, one person grabs your leg or clothing while another takes items from your pocket on the other side.
How can I spot it early?
Someone suddenly grabs your leg or clothing. Another person presses close while your attention is elsewhere.
How do I avoid pickpocketing and the leg-grab distraction in Senegal?
Use pockets that fasten with buttons or snaps. Keep your shirt over your pockets. Carry only the cash you need at markets. If someone grabs you, watch your belongings and the person on your other side.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe. Check what is missing, block stolen cards and report the theft. Do not chase the thief.
Where in Senegal does this happen?
Crowded streets and markets, especially Marche Sandaga. Petty crime also affects the area around Place de l'Indépendance. It has been reported in Dakar.
How common is this scam in Senegal?
Common. Tourist scams and petty theft are common in Dakar, especially around busy markets and the airport. Watch for inflated taxi fares, missing change, false guides, pickpockets and people posing as airport or hotel staff. Some tricks involve threats or robbery, so leave early if an encounter feels wrong.
Are there similar scams in Senegal?
Yes: market vendor snatching cash, theft from separately stored bus luggage.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery, threats or extortion. Give the location, time and any evidence. Ask for a written report or reference number. Official airport staff: at the airport, go to an official staffed desk if someone takes your bags or pressures you for money. Card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact channel to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for a stolen passport, detention or consular assistance. Hotel or transport operator: tell reception or the operator about staff impersonation, luggage theft or a disputed service. Keep journey and booking details. Travel insurer: contact its claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of losses.
Reviewed by @snuck