Safety & Security in PP!!!

[Sparky]

Please be aware that there are thieves about, especially in supermarkets and the markets.
Someone in Eroski had a handbag (with everything in it) stolen yesterday on their way from the airport to PP .

Take care guys.....don't become a victim.

 

[eleanor]

Good warning Sparky. These people know how to operate and they are so quick too!
Such a shame for these poor people to have the start of their holiday ruined.

Another warning is to be very aware at the airport too as to leave a bag in the trolley or on the handle is very easy for the thieves to grab and run.

 

[Sparky]

Yes Eleanor i am afraid the thieves don't take holidays .

 

[redshirt]

Excellent advice...

Mike and Sue

 

[JMD40]

Unfortnatley my client was not the only one who had a bad weekend. I went to the Guardia Civil at 1930hrs and left there gone 2300hrs as they were so busy with `denuncios´. I hate having to give this warning, and Puerto Pollensa is a very safe resort, BUT please do take great care with all your belongings. These guys know what they are doing and spot their target a mile off. Do not carry valuables around, lock in the safe where possible and keep your guard about you at all times. They distract you, or in this case actually push you hard, and grab your bag and disappear. Spread your money between you so that not one person has everything in one bag, just the same as you do when packing your suitcases.... take care out there and enjoy your holiday.

 

[eleanor]

While we are on the subject of security and certainly have no wish to be negative as these thieves operate worldwide. BUT please also be aware of another tactic which actually happened to us a few years back. we were in Alcampo carpark when approached by a young couple with a map in their hand. We had already placed a couple of bags in the car but the door was open. Whilst we were distracted by the couple a third person stole the bags from the car. A car came up to the side and the couple asking for directions jumped in and off they went. This team was a team of 4 and as sparky said had chosen their target.

These things do not happen often thankfully but knowledge is power. Thieves operate everywhere but thankfully PP is still a safe and lovely place to be.

 

[Sparky]

This also happens at the airport, i don't want to labour the point or cause alarm my friends, i just want you to take care, be safe and enjoy a happy holiday in this wonderful place .

 

[Nick]

All good, sound advice.............don't become a victim.
Use common sense, that's all.

 

[eleanor]

Common sense is important but these thieves are often a step ahead and change their tactics to suit the situation. As I said knowledge is power and it is the knowledge of how they operate along with common sense which will keep us all safe.

Anyone thinking of coming to this beautiful island and especially PP please do not be put off. As stated in terms of the thousands of people who visit each year the percentage is extremely low. It happens everywhere and to be aware will reduce the chances even more of these ghastly people targetting you.

 

[MAG]

Sorry more bad news. We have owned our apartment in Pinaret area for 6 years with no problems. Last night we were burgled and the safe was forced open. My son had his holiday euros stolen. Only money taken.

 

[Nick]

Oh dear, not good atall. Sorry to hear about that.

Out of interest, and for security purposes as we also have an apartment in PP, how did they get in?

Also, was your safe hidden or on view?

 

[Tonsyl]

Security.

It's a very great shame that this subject is with us again and I feel very sorry for those folk who's holidays have been spoilt by what is happening. I agree with the common sense approach and feel that all of us holidaymakers could at times be more aware of what's going on around us. By this I suggest that when we are in the supermarkets, make a point of looking at anyone who seems to be "eyeing up" other peoples bags and trolleys. If you see a car outside property with occupants just sitting watching, take a walk by and let them know you've seen them. Most of these petty criminals are nervous and if they know they've been noticed, they usually drift off to find another target. I know that around here we have been practising this for some time and only a couple of weeks ago, 2 petty criminals were arrested following such observations. I'm sure both the GC and the Locals would appreciate any help they can get.

 

[MAG]

Climbed over a tall garden gate and forced open patio doors. Safe was out of view.

 

[eleanor]

Oh Mag that is just horrid! especially so as it leaves you with the feeling of having been watched. I'm sure your son was upset to lose his holiday money but thankfully you are ok. I assume your block is quiet at the moment with few people around. I do hope you continue to enjoy your holiday.
Good suggestions from Tonsyl but I have actually gone one further and taken photographs of people just sitting in cars! Seriously - so easy with mobiles without it being obvious and good for potential evidence.
Crime is something we need to be aware of especially in times when things are so hard - not an excuse as much as an explanation!

 

[eleanor]

Whilst we are talking about security today this might very well be a good time to remind people to be aware of the so called 'officials' who have attempted to gain entry to premises by saying they are from the gas board or water or whatever. They show a clipboard and look very official asking for money for work which needs to be completed. These people are not officials but can be quite intimidating. If you are renting and this happens to you be aware that no one would just turn up without prior arrangement so don't let them in. Cleaners, gardeners, pool maintenance etc will only call when you know they will call. If in any doubt call the owner or agent or housekeeper.

I know this all seems very negative but to have this information all under the security thread can only help keep crime down and to remind us all to be careful.

 

[Nick]

That would leave me to believe then that few properties in your part, which is very quiet anyway, are occupied and you were either watched or something outside would have alerted the thieves to your property being occupied?

Mine is a second floor apartment so different set-up.

I think with a ground floor apartment I'd have to invest in a metal grill or electronic shutters? Not nice I know but at least a deterent.

The advice given above by several others to really stare at suspicious people is a good one. Criminals hate/fear nothing more than knowing they are being watched or may be challenged.

But please put everything into perspective and enjoy yourselves!

 

[FindItFME]

I think that this situation can only get worse, as time goes on and the crisis gets deeper. I think that modern CCTV is the way forward, these thieves don't want to be recognized (as mentioned before) and often simply seeing a camera is enough to make them move on.

 

[PP_Kev]

My in-laws were around the Eroski when the lady had ger handbag stollen, and my father in law went running into the Car Park to see if he could catch up with them, but they were long gone.

When it comes to security, this forum could act as a great asset, if people share their experiences on here, then it makes people aware when in certain situations. Particularly, as members of the family have found in and around the airport and in crowds.

I have had one member of the family had a purse stollen, when people suddenly bundled against us in the lift in the airport Car Park, when we got to the car, she realised it was missing.

Another member was distracted, again in the airport Car Park with someone telling them to return the baggage trolley when putting there belongings in a hire car, that got rid of one person, then another distracted the family member while someone else took a bag of the back seat.

Lastly, when in a crowd at a bus stop (I think in Alcudia), another family member had a wallet stolen from a zipped up pocket.

The area is a safe place, these few incidents have happened between several years, it is just best just to keep your wits about you, particularly in Crowds and at the airport, or if approached by anyone (even if they do seem innocent), that is my advice and enjoy the island!

 

[Nick]

Simple but effective................that's all it takes.
Good advice.
Just be aware but don't let it spoil your hols.....

 

[Major Tom]

Large Eroski

Beware pickpockets operating inside this supermarket as I had my
wallet stolen.

I was asked by a man where was the 'ice' and whilst I pointed it out
his partner in crime stole my wallet.

This has never happened to me before, I hate it !!

Lost cash + cards that were used at ATM somehow ?


Everyone please be careful on holiday this year.