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This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
I have long been intrigued by videos from Rome that are increasingly appearing on TikTok and Instagram Reels. The plot is always the same: a crowd in the Roman metro, a man trying to get to the doors, but a group of women blocks his way. Suddenly, he starts shouting “Pickpockets! Pickpockets!”, and the women abruptly flee the carriage, not looking back. At first glance – just an argument. But in reality, this is part of a rather dangerous and sophisticated criminal scheme.
A trap city for tourists
Rome is not just the Colosseum, pasta, and morning espresso. It is also one of the main capitals of pickpocketing in Europe. And the metro is a real paradise for those who prey on distracted tourists. Especially during rush hours, when the carriages are packed, and you are being pushed from all sides. This environment is the perfect stage for “professionals”.
Theater of pickpocketing manipulation
The women we see in these videos are not random passengers. They are organized groups of thieves who work in close coordination. Their role is to create a barrier at the doors to stop the flow of people trying to exit or enter. At this moment, other members of the group are rummaging through pockets, pulling out wallets, phones, and documents. They move swiftly, in sync, and mostly – completely unnoticed.
“Pickpockets!” as an alarm signal
When someone – more often locals, less often tourists – notices that something strange is happening, they shout “Pickpockets!” This is not just a word; it is a kind of siren. The reaction is instantaneous: the suspected women, even if they haven't stolen anything yet, immediately leave the carriage – their main goal is not to get caught. Sometimes bystanders record these scenes on video, and sometimes the victims themselves recount how they almost became victims.
Why women?
This is an important question. The thing is that women (especially those with children or in the guise of tourists) arouse less suspicion. They often appear modest, non-aggressive. Some wear long skirts, headscarves, and use strollers – all to create an “innocent” image. Moreover, some have underage accomplices who are difficult to hold accountable due to age restrictions. This is a deliberate tactical move.
Where are they from?
In many videos, you can hear these women speaking among themselves in Romanian, Bulgarian, or dialects of the Romani language. Often they are migrants from the Balkans or Eastern Europe who travel through cities and countries in the EU in search of “easy prey.” They may have fake documents or no documents at all. They do not stay long in one place: today in Rome, tomorrow in Milan, the day after in Barcelona.
Police? What police?
The Italian police, of course, are aware of these schemes. But often they do not have the time or legal tools to effectively combat pickpocketing. Most of these crimes are classified as minor, and even if a thief is caught – she may be released without serious punishment. Often there is a lack of evidence, or victims do not stay to file a report.
What should a tourist do?
When I saw these videos, I immediately asked myself: how to protect yourself if you find yourself in such a situation?
Here are a few simple but effective tips:
- Never keep valuables in outer pockets.
- Money and documents – only in inner compartments or a waist bag under clothing.
- In a crowd, keep your bag in front of you, not behind.
- Avoid congestion near the doors – it’s better to go deeper into the carriage.
- If you hear “Pickpockets!” – immediately check your belongings.
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