We have just been told of another potential danger on the streets that we think people should be aware of. As yet, we have not seen anything official about this but if it is happening in our towns, then we think it is best to be warned. Here is the message we received…
“I have just been on the phone to a friend who told me about a scam going on. You are approached in the street by two guys in what looks like official uniform. They carry a bottle of gel and they ask you to sample it by putting some on your hand – then they ask if you like the smell, so you smell it and then get dizzyand pass out , so they can rob you !! This warning was given to my friend by phone from the police!”
“I remember hearing about something similar when I first moved to Moraira 8 years ago. People were selling perfume at Christmas door to door. And when they asked you to smell it, it was chloroform which knocks you out cold and then they burgled your house”
There has also been a number of supermarket car park robberies of late, so please do be vigilant – report anything suspicious to police ( and if in a car park – the manager of the store).
KEEPING SAFE ON THE STREETS – A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER:-
Keep your mobile phone and valuables out of sight. If you’re using your phone it’s more likely to be snatched from your hand as you’re not paying attention to your surroundings, so look around you.
And never leave a mobile, any other device, wallet or purse on the table of an outdoor café, pub or restaurant. Same goes for any jewellery you might be wearing – keep it covered when walking down the street.
We know it’s not always easy, but try to be aware of anyone near you when you’re at an ATM. Being aware of your surroundings and not being distracted makes it harder for people to take advantage and less likely that they’ll try to.
Thieves will watch as you key in your PIN or distract you while you’re withdrawing cash. Be vigilant. Cover your PIN and keep an eye on your card at all times. If someone taps you on the shoulder or tries to speak to you, just ignore them.
When you’ve left the ATM, put your card away immediately.
You should also be careful with contactless cards. You can get a card holder to prevent your card details being inadvertently read.
NEVER leave bags, phones or other valuable personal effects in your car.
Especially now, people you do not know should not be coming within 2 metres of you. Do not open car windows to talk to someone you do not recognise.
Valuable watches are a prime target for thieves and elderly vunerable people are also most at risk from these crooks.
