Scam in EthiopiaTheft
Pickpocketing in crowds and shared transport in Ethiopia
How it works
Thieves take belongings while people are crowded together or distracted. Visible cameras, backpacks and other tourist items can attract attention.
Warning signs
- People press closely against you in a crowd.
- Your bag is behind you or its opening is out of sight.
- Your phone, wallet or camera is easy to reach.
How to avoid it
- Keep your bag closed and in front of you in crowds.
- Keep your wallet and phone close on shared transport.
- Avoid displaying valuables when you do not need them.
- Check your belongings after boarding or leaving a crowded vehicle.
If it happens to you
Check what is missing from a safe place. Block stolen cards, secure affected accounts and report the theft.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. If you are threatened or injured, seek emergency help. In Addis Ababa, the emergency number is 911.
- Check what is missing. Block stolen cards promptly and contact your mobile provider if your phone or SIM was taken.
- Record what happened while it is fresh. Save receipts, messages, booking details and any vehicle information you already have.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to the police. Ask for a report or reference number if available.
- Contact your card issuer, insurer or embassy as needed. Keep copies of reports and receipts, and avoid anyone who demands advance payment to recover your belongings.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Travel blogBradt Ethiopia Travel News2011New scam on Addis Ababa Minibuses – Bradt Ethiopia Travel NewsA passenger reported that a man opened her purse under cover of a jacket while another passenger distracted her by asking for help opening a crowded minibus window.Read on Travel blog
- Travel blog2017Layover in Addis Ababa? Explore the city! - Trains, Planes and Tuk TuksThe traveller described Addis Ababa's crowded minibuses and warned that pickpockets operate on them.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the pickpocketing in crowds and shared transport scam in Ethiopia?
Thieves take belongings while people are crowded together or distracted. Visible cameras, backpacks and other tourist items can attract attention.
How can I spot it early?
People press closely against you in a crowd. Your bag is behind you or its opening is out of sight. Your phone, wallet or camera is easy to reach.
How do I avoid pickpocketing in crowds and shared transport in Ethiopia?
Keep your bag closed and in front of you in crowds. Keep your wallet and phone close on shared transport. Avoid displaying valuables when you do not need them. Check your belongings after boarding or leaving a crowded vehicle.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Check what is missing from a safe place. Block stolen cards, secure affected accounts and report the theft.
Where in Ethiopia does this happen?
Bole Airport, Mercato, Piazza, crowded Line Taxis and public buses; no specific location is given for Dire Dawa It has been reported in Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa.
How common is this scam in Ethiopia?
Occasional. Tourists can face pickpocketing, distraction theft, inflated prices and commission-seeking touts in Ethiopia. Watch especially closely in busy parts of Addis Ababa, when agreeing transport fares, and when strangers offer invitations or help with bookings.
Are there similar scams in Ethiopia?
Yes: sales-tray distraction theft, spitting and clean-up distraction, arm-grabbing distraction theft.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or fraud at a police station. Bring a short account of events and any receipts, messages or booking details. Ask for a report or reference number if available. Emergency services in Addis Ababa: call 911 for an emergency. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to block a stolen card and report unauthorised transactions. Transport operator, booking service or accommodation: report a fare or booking dispute through the service that arranged it. Provide the agreed price, trip details and proof of payment. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep the police report, receipts and proof of loss. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Ethiopia?
All emergencies in Addis Ababa: 911.
Reviewed by @snuck