The most common crime is robbery in all its forms, with or without violence, which involves misappropriation of something that had been snatched.
For this reason it is recommended that you follow these rules of conduct to avoid the possibility of being a victim of this type of crime.
1. Robberies on public highways
~ They demand bags, cases or objects of value that we carry. It is important to walk near to the wall, far from the kerb; as this will, without doubt, prevent any robberies by those who have the help of a vehicle.
~ Equally it is advisable not to leave on show jewellery that is wearable on the neck, like necklaces or chains.
~ Avoid carrying large quantities of money and showing it in public areas.
~ Accompany older people to banks when they need to withdraw money. However, if you are a victim of this type of crime it is recommended to memorise the key information of the perpetrator, in order to help the police, such as: Race, Hair, Height, Clothing
~ In the case they have used some type of vehicle it is useful to record:
a. Make, Model, Colour and Number plate
b. Other distinctive features such as dents, collision marks, stickers etc.
2. Robberies in houses
There are rules of behaviour in order to make it more difficult for “aliens” to visit your house when you are absent. They are:
~ Secure the doors and windows before leaving home.
~ Don’t leave messages on your answering machine or notes which are evidence of your absence.
~ Don´t look for unusual hiding places for your valuables. Make an inventory and photograph them in order that they can be identified in case of a robbery. Any objects which have a particular value for you should be placed in a safe.
~ Don´t leave mail to accumulate in a mail box. Ask a friend or neighbour to pick them up from time to time.
~ If you return to find the house has been broken into, do not go in and do not touch anything. Report what has happened immediately at the nearest Police station.
3. Robberies in Vehicles
These are some of the most common crimes and at the same time, the easiest to stop.
~ The best thing is not to leave anything of value in the interior of the car.
~ If this is impossible because you are travelling or working, it is advisable not to leave anything on show. If the parking area is not going to be guarded (or out of sight) hide your valuable but do it before in order not to be observed hiding objects.
~ However it is always preferable to park in a guarded car park.~ Whilst driving, keep car doors locked and don´t leave anything on the passenger seats that could be stolen by robbers.