Scam in Ivory CoastTheft
Pickpocketing in crowded places in Ivory Coast
How it works
Thieves take belongings while crowds make it harder to notice someone reaching into a bag or pocket. Busy transport areas are a particular concern.
Warning signs
- A crowd presses closely around you.
- Your bag is open or sitting behind you.
- Your phone or wallet is easy to reach.
How to avoid it
- Close your bag before entering a crowd.
- Carry your bag in front of you in busy areas.
- Keep your phone and wallet out of back pockets.
- Carry only the cash and valuables you need.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe. Check what is missing, block stolen cards and report the theft. Do not chase the thief into an unfamiliar area.
- Get somewhere safe. Leave any confrontation and do not chase a thief or resist an armed attacker.
- Check what is missing. If cards or a phone were stolen, block cards and secure affected accounts as soon as possible.
- Save useful evidence. Keep receipts, booking records and messages. Write down the time, location, vehicle details and what happened.
- Report the incident to the police. Ask for a report or reference number if one is available.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen, you were threatened or you need help dealing with local authorities.
- Contact your insurer and any relevant payment provider promptly. Explain what happened and ask what evidence they need.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the pickpocketing in crowded places scam in Ivory Coast?
Thieves take belongings while crowds make it harder to notice someone reaching into a bag or pocket. Busy transport areas are a particular concern.
How can I spot it early?
A crowd presses closely around you. Your bag is open or sitting behind you. Your phone or wallet is easy to reach.
How do I avoid pickpocketing in crowded places in Ivory Coast?
Close your bag before entering a crowd. Carry your bag in front of you in busy areas. Keep your phone and wallet out of back pockets. Carry only the cash and valuables you need.
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 into an unfamiliar area.
Where in Ivory Coast does this happen?
Crowded buses, busy bus stations and markets, including Adjame. It has been reported in Abidjan.
How common is this scam in Ivory Coast?
Common. The main tourist risks described for Côte d'Ivoire are taxi overcharging, demands for bribes at checkpoints, pickpocketing and carjacking. Most specific warnings concern Abidjan, especially airport taxis, crowded transport areas and driving late at night. The airport itself has improved security and a better reputation than before.
Are there similar scams in Ivory Coast?
Yes: carjacking when vehicles stop at night.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats, carjacking or fraud at a police station once you are safe. Bring any evidence and ask for a report or reference number. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport, serious threats or concerns about an encounter with officials. Your bank or card issuer: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to block stolen cards and report unauthorised transactions. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep police paperwork, receipts and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck