Scam in AlgeriaTheft
Theft by passing motorbike riders in Algeria
How it works
A thief on a passing motorbike steals a visitor's belongings and rides away.
Warning signs
- You are holding valuables where a passing rider could reach them.
- Your bag hangs loosely on the side nearest traffic.
How to avoid it
- Keep your phone and other valuables out of sight when walking.
- Carry your bag away from passing traffic.
- Step back from the road before checking your phone.
If it happens to you
Do not chase the rider or struggle over a bag if you could be dragged into traffic. Get to safety, note what you remember and report the theft.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or resist someone who threatens you.
- Check whether anyone is hurt. Seek urgent medical help if needed.
- Freeze stolen cards and secure affected accounts. If your phone is missing, use its remote lock feature if available.
- Save the details you have: time, location, receipts, booking records, vehicle details and a description of what happened.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a written report or reference number for insurance.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate. Report any app-booked ride through the booking service too.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the theft by passing motorbike riders scam in Algeria?
A thief on a passing motorbike steals a visitor's belongings and rides away.
How can I spot it early?
You are holding valuables where a passing rider could reach them. Your bag hangs loosely on the side nearest traffic.
How do I avoid theft by passing motorbike riders in Algeria?
Keep your phone and other valuables out of sight when walking. Carry your bag away from passing traffic. Step back from the road before checking your phone.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not chase the rider or struggle over a bag if you could be dragged into traffic. Get to safety, note what you remember and report the theft.
Where in Algeria does this happen?
Constantine. It has been reported in Constantine.
How common is this scam in Algeria?
Occasional. Algeria has little tourist-scam culture, but taxi overcharging and unofficial guides can cause problems. Watch for theft on buses in Batna, and pickpocketing and theft by passing motorbike riders in Constantine. Robbery is also a concern in remote areas.
Are there similar scams in Algeria?
Yes: pickpocketing and bus theft, robbery in remote areas.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or suspected fraud. Give the location, time and any useful evidence. The police number listed for Algiers is 1548. Gendarmes: ask for help or local safety advice if you are unsure about your surroundings. No contact number is provided. Card issuer or bank: use the issuer's official app or contact number to freeze a stolen card and report any unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Algiers has many embassies. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its claims or assistance service. Keep receipts, evidence and the police report. Taxi booking service: if you booked through Yassir or Heetch, use the service's support channel and provide the trip details.
What number do I call in an emergency in Algeria?
Police — listed for Algiers: 1548, Fire department — listed for Algiers: 14, Paramedics — listed for Algiers: 0 213 23 54 44 28.
Reviewed by @snuck