Scam in DR CongoTheft
Smash-and-grab theft at intersections in DR Congo
How it works
Thieves smash a vehicle window and grab visible valuables before escaping.
Warning signs
- Phones, cameras or bags are visible through the windows.
- Your vehicle is stopped at an intersection with valuables close to a window.
How to avoid it
- Put valuables out of sight before travelling.
- Keep bags away from windows and out of easy reach.
- Avoid displaying cameras or phones while stopped.
If it happens to you
Do not chase the thief or struggle over belongings. Move to safety and seek medical care for any injury.
- Get to a safe place. If threatened, avoid a physical struggle and put your safety first.
- Seek urgent medical care for injuries or suspected poisoning.
- Freeze stolen cards and contact your bank or card issuer about suspicious payments.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, amounts and any vehicle details. Save receipts and booking records.
- Report theft, robbery or fraud to police when safe. Ask for a report or reference for insurance.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing, you are stranded or you need serious assistance. Notify your insurer and a trusted contact.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the smash-and-grab theft at intersections scam in DR Congo?
Thieves smash a vehicle window and grab visible valuables before escaping.
How can I spot it early?
Phones, cameras or bags are visible through the windows. Your vehicle is stopped at an intersection with valuables close to a window.
How do I avoid smash-and-grab theft at intersections in DR Congo?
Put valuables out of sight before travelling. Keep bags away from windows and out of easy reach. Avoid displaying cameras or phones while stopped.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not chase the thief or struggle over belongings. Move to safety and seek medical care for any injury.
Where in DR Congo does this happen?
Road intersections, especially when vehicles are stopped. It has been reported in Kinshasa.
How common is this scam in DR Congo?
Occasional. Travellers face theft, demands for bribes, fake police and inflated prices, especially in Kinshasa. Serious risks include robbery by taxi drivers and people posing as police; conflict and limited medical care add dangers beyond scams.
Are there similar scams in DR Congo?
Yes: pickpocketing in busy markets, car-door snatching.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery or fraud when you can do so safely. Ask a trusted local or your accommodation to help you find a police station. Request a written report or reference. Embassy or consulate: use your embassy's official contact channels for a lost passport, serious crime or help when stranded. Bank or card issuer: use the bank's app or official contact number to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims or assistance channel. Keep police reports, receipts and records of losses. Hotel management or transport provider: report incidents involving a room, driver or arranged airport service. Give the booking details and keep a record of the response.
Reviewed by @snuck