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Very common in Kenya

Scam in KenyaTheft

Pickpocketing in crowds and on buses in Kenya

Crowded streets, buses, busy shopping areas and Kibuye Market. The airport-to-downtown bus in Nairobi is a particular target.

How it works

Thieves take money, phones or wallets from pockets and bags. In Nairobi, they may watch people withdrawing cash before targeting them.

Warning signs

  • People crowding close to your pockets or bag.
  • Someone watching your cash withdrawal.
  • A distraction while another person moves close.

How to avoid it

  1. Keep cash in a hidden pouch.
  2. Keep your bag in front of you.
  3. Do not put your wallet in a back pocket.
  4. Put cash away before leaving an ATM.

If it happens to you

Move somewhere safe. Freeze missing cards and report the theft to police.

  1. Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase thieves or confront anyone with a weapon.
  2. Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
  3. Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible. Ask your mobile provider to block the SIM.
  4. Save receipts, messages, booking details and transaction records. Write down what happened while you remember it.
  5. Report theft, robbery or threats to police. Ask for a report or reference number.
  6. Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate.
Where it happensCrowded streets, buses, busy shopping areas and Kibuye Market. The airport-to-downtown bus in Nairobi is a particular target.Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu

What travellers report

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

More scams in KenyaHigher souvenir prices for visitors: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the pickpocketing in crowds and on buses scam in Kenya?

Thieves take money, phones or wallets from pockets and bags. In Nairobi, they may watch people withdrawing cash before targeting them.

How can I spot it early?

People crowding close to your pockets or bag. Someone watching your cash withdrawal. A distraction while another person moves close.

How do I avoid pickpocketing in crowds and on buses in Kenya?

Keep cash in a hidden pouch. Keep your bag in front of you. Do not put your wallet in a back pocket. Put cash away before leaving an ATM.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Move somewhere safe. Freeze missing cards and report the theft to police.

Where in Kenya does this happen?

Crowded streets, buses, busy shopping areas and Kibuye Market. The airport-to-downtown bus in Nairobi is a particular target. It has been reported in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu.

How common is this scam in Kenya?

Very common. Tourist overcharging, pushy touts and theft are recurring risks in Kenya. Pickpocketing is especially common in Nairobi and around Kisumu's Kibuye Market, while transport fares, souvenir prices and basic services can cost visitors much more than locals pay. Robbery is a more serious risk, especially after dark.

Are there similar scams in Kenya?

Yes: street mugging and snatch theft, valuables snatched through vehicle windows, theft from checked luggage.

Who can I report it to?

Police: report theft, robbery, threats or fraud at a police station. Ask for a written report or reference number. Mombasa Central police station: visit Makadara Road or call +254 41 225501. Police on Mama Ngina Drive are also listed at +254 41 225501 and +254 41 222121. Kisumu police: call the provincial headquarters on +254 20 465767 or Kisumu division on +254 20 333151. The headquarters are on Nairobi Road near the long-distance bus terminal. Card issuer or bank: use the official app or published contact number to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Transport company or airline: report fare disputes through the operator's official support channel. Report missing checked-bag contents to the airline promptly and keep your baggage tag. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport or a serious incident. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss.

What number do I call in an emergency in Kenya?

Emergency assistance; listed for Mombasa: 112, Police and fire emergency assistance; listed for Mombasa: 999.

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