Scam in GhanaTheft
Pickpocketing at Kejetia Market in Ghana
How it works
Pickpockets take valuables without the owner noticing. No particular distraction or theft technique is specified.
Warning signs
- Your bag is open or its pockets are easy for others to reach.
- Your phone or wallet is visible in an outer pocket.
How to avoid it
- Keep bags closed and in front of you.
- Keep your phone and wallet out of back pockets.
- Carry only the cash and valuables you need.
- Pay attention to your belongings while browsing or paying.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and block stolen cards. Report the theft to the police.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or resist someone who threatens you. Call 112 if you need urgent police, fire or ambulance help.
- Block stolen cards immediately. If your phone is missing, lock it remotely if possible and contact your mobile provider.
- Write down what happened while it is fresh. Save receipts, payment records, messages and any vehicle details you already have.
- Report theft, fraud, robbery or threats to the police. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your card issuer, insurer or payment provider as needed. Ask what evidence they need and whether any loss can be recovered.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need help after a serious incident.
Questions
What is the pickpocketing at Kejetia Market scam in Ghana?
Pickpockets take valuables without the owner noticing. No particular distraction or theft technique is specified.
How can I spot it early?
Your bag is open or its pockets are easy for others to reach. Your phone or wallet is visible in an outer pocket.
How do I avoid pickpocketing at Kejetia Market in Ghana?
Keep bags closed and in front of you. Keep your phone and wallet out of back pockets. Carry only the cash and valuables you need. Pay attention to your belongings while browsing or paying.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and block stolen cards. Report the theft to the police.
Where in Ghana does this happen?
Kejetia Market, also called Kumasi Central Market. It has been reported in Kumasi.
How common is this scam in Ghana?
Occasional. Ghana is generally safe, with relatively low crime levels, but visitors should watch for inflated taxi quotes and card fraud. Phone snatching, pickpocketing and muggings are also reported. Persistent beach sellers can be a nuisance, while people suspected to be gay or queer can face targeted extortion.
Are there similar scams in Ghana?
Yes: street phone snatching, muggings outside Bywel's bar.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 112 for urgent help. For a non-urgent theft or fraud report, approach a police station and ask for a report or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze the card and report payments you did not authorise. Mobile provider: contact the provider through an official channel to block a stolen SIM and ask about protecting linked services. Travel insurer: contact the claims service and keep police reports, receipts and records of the loss. Embassy or consulate: use official contact details for help with a stolen passport or a serious incident. If facing sensitive threats or extortion, ask about confidential assistance.
What number do I call in an emergency in Ghana?
Police, fire and ambulance: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck