Stop! How to protect yourself from pickpockets in the supermarket!

Stop! How to protect yourself from pickpockets in the supermarket!

Nordthüringen (ots)

In an important initiative to combat pickpockets, the police in the Thuringian area will be active in supermarkets from October 7th to 11th, 2024. The police sensitize citizens to this problem, which can often lead to an unpleasant experience during shopping. The districts of Kyffhäuser, Unstrut-Hainich, Eichsfeld and Nordhausen are particularly affected, where police officers will take on roles in various shops and will provide advice.

The last figures from the police crime statistics are alarming: The number of pickpocketing in the area of LPI Nordhausen has drastically increased from 70 cases in 2022 in 2023. This striking plus illustrates the need for preventive measures to deter potential perpetrators. Crime not only works in big cities; It doesn't stop at smaller places either. Pocket thieves often only use moments of their victims' carelessness to encourage them and steal valuable objects.

practical tips for avoiding pickpockets

On October 9, the experienced prevention officers gave crime chief commissioner Steffen Ritschel, police chief Mike Reichelt and police chief Anja Müller valuable information in the Nordhäuser Supermarkt on Darrweg. They emphasized the importance of caution and the right behavior when purchasing:

• Stow your valuables. A closed handbag that is worn on the body helps to prevent thieves. Open bags offer easier access for pickpockets. Wear the bag so that the closure side points to your body.
• Place your wallet as close to your body as possible. Inside pockets in the jacket or special pockets on the belt and chest are ideal for this.
• Always keep an eye on your bag. Never leave your bag unattended in the shopping cart, because a few seconds of inattentiveness can be enough to become the victim of theft.
• be attentive to suspicious behavior. If strangers come too close to them or try to get involved in a conversation, this could be a distraction maneuver. Pocket thieves often work in groups.
• keep your distance from strangers so as not to be in danger.
• only carry the cash and the cards you really need to minimize the risk.
• special caution is required in crowded areas. Pay attention to your valuables!

If you are still the victim of pickpocketing, it is important to act quickly. Immediately file a complaint with the police. If your EC card is discarded, the police will carry out a so-called Kuno blocking, while you should block your card as quickly as possible via the lock emergency call 116 116. If your mobile phone is gone, don't forget to block the SIM card or the device. Stolen ID cards must also be reported to the relevant authorities, and if your ID card has an online ID card, this should also be blocked as soon as possible.

The police will be present at many other supermarkets in North Thuringia during the campaign week to offer the citizens additional information and security. The officers are ready for questions and look forward to talking to them. Your safety when shopping has top priority. Take this opportunity to get well informed and go shopping with a good feeling!

For more information about the campaign and tips for safe shopping, See the comprehensive report at www.presseportal.de .