Scam in BangladeshTheft
Pickpocketing in crowds and transport in Bangladesh
How it works
Someone takes valuables while you are crowded together or distracted during travel.
Warning signs
- People are pressed closely around you.
- Your phone, wallet or open bag is within easy reach.
How to avoid it
- Keep valuables close to your body.
- Close bags and keep them in front of you in crowds.
- Avoid displaying expensive jewellery.
- Carry only what you need.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and report the theft. Freeze missing payment cards promptly.
- Move to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or continue an argument that feels threatening.
- Call 999 for an emergency involving police, fire or an ambulance. Seek urgent medical help if you suspect drugging.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, agreed price and vehicle licence plate if known. Save receipts and screenshots.
- Freeze missing payment cards and contact your card issuer. Secure accounts on a stolen phone when possible.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a report or reference number and keep a copy.
- Contact your insurer and, if your passport is missing or you need consular help, your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- TripadvisorBangladesh Forum2023Are solo tourists safe in Bangladesh in 2023?A respondent advises solo visitors to beware of pickpockets whenever they enter large crowds.Read on Tripadvisor
- Government advice2026Bangladesh travel adviceCanadian advice describes pickpocketing as common in tourist areas and warns of thieves on trains, ferries and long-distance buses.Read on Government advice
- Travel blog2020Is Bangladesh Safe? Top 5 Essential Travel Safety TipsThe travel safety article identifies pickpocketing and bag snatching among crimes affecting travellers and cautions about crowded buses.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the pickpocketing in crowds and transport scam in Bangladesh?
Someone takes valuables while you are crowded together or distracted during travel.
How can I spot it early?
People are pressed closely around you. Your phone, wallet or open bag is within easy reach.
How do I avoid pickpocketing in crowds and transport in Bangladesh?
Keep valuables close to your body. Close bags and keep them in front of you in crowds. Avoid displaying expensive jewellery. Carry only what you need.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and report the theft. Freeze missing payment cards promptly.
Where in Bangladesh does this happen?
Crowds and journeys by rickshaw, CNG or bus.
How common is this scam in Bangladesh?
Occasional. Transport overcharging is a key scam risk in Bangladesh, especially in Chittagong. Other problems include small tourist markups, airport bribe demands, pickpocketing and bag theft. Most people are friendly, but take extra care with strangers' offers and late-night transport.
Are there similar scams in Bangladesh?
Yes: bag grabbing from rickshaws, mugging during late-night rickshaw rides.
Who can I report it to?
Police, fire or ambulance: dial 999 from a Bangladeshi mobile phone number or landline for an emergency. Local police: report theft, threats, extortion or fraud. Provide the location, time, description and any receipts or vehicle details. Ask for a report or reference number. Khulna Metropolitan Police Control Room: the listed local number is 20220. For an emergency, use 999. Card issuer or bank: use the official app or published contact number to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular assistance. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and other evidence.
What number do I call in an emergency in Bangladesh?
Police, fire and ambulance: 999.
Reviewed by @snuck