In Helsinki, pickpockets often follow this pattern: they steal a wallet from a tourist, in most cases Chinese or Japanese, who carry their wallet in a backpack, a shoulder bag carried on the back, or a back pocket. Asian tourists are among the top targets of professional pickpockets across Europe, because criminals know that they often carry large amounts of cash.
Almost 100% of professional pickpockets are mobile criminals. Other types of pickpocketing do happen, but in most cases they are so-called ‘opportunity makes the thief’ crimes, that is, a wallet or cell phone is left unattended so that it is easy to snatch, for example in a bar.
Open outdoor spaces, such as marketplaces, with no surveillance cameras are the most convenient places for pickpockets, particularly ones where you can run away in all directions. Streets surrounding tourist attractions are also popular hotspots for pickpockets. They may choose their victims for example in a church and start following them in the street.
Public transport, particularly trams and trains stopping at stations, are easy locations for pickpockets to operate, because people are in a small space close to each other and the thieves can escape quickly.
Tourists should also keep a close eye on their property while having breakfast in hotels. It is advisable not to bring to the breakfast room anything valuable that you do not absolutely need, but leave it all in your hotel room. The same advice also applies when moving around the city: it is advisable to leave everything that you do not need during the day for example in the locked safe in your hotel room.
The elderly also carry cash and therefore, like tourists, are easy targets for pickpockets for example in grocery stores. Therefore, it is not sensible to carry cash on you, at least not large amounts.
If you have been targeted by pickpockets, call emergency number 112 immediately. If you see the suspect or suspects, it is important to carefully make a mental note of their description and the direction in which they leave.
Non-urgent tips and observations relating to pickpockets are welcome by email to taskuvarkaudet. helsinki(at)poliisi.fi.
