You haven’t really lived until you find yourself in the back of a police car overseas, I think to myself. We are strolling through one of South America’s most beautiful cities, completely content from an afternoon of meandering through local markets. As our party crosses an intersection in a chic, vibrant neighbourhood, full of tourists and locals, a man jumps off a motorbike and literally onto the back of my travelling companion.
In seconds, the thief rips the watch right off my mate’s wrist and jumps back on the bike, his getaway driver tearing off into the distance. We’re all left shell-shocked, staring at each other in disbelief on the footpath. Overseas theft happens everywhere.
But once you realise it’s just happened to you, it feels like a punch in the guts. As savvy travellers, our group were all aware of how to stay safe when travelling, but if something does go wrong, how should you handle it? If you’ve had an item stolen overseas, the first thing to do is remain calm. If you’re in imminent danger, move somewhere safe before calling police or emergency services, seeking medical attention if needed.
Even if you’re not physically injured, the emotional whirlwind of a robbery can take its toll, so draw in a few deep breaths – it’s normal to feel anger, fear, or anxiety after a traumatic and unexpected event. Professional thieves around the world have their technique perfected to a fine art, and as an unsuspecting tourist, it’s easy to make mistake.
