Credit: Ekaette Bassey
Pickpockets attack is so rampant in Nigeria. Most of these attacks happen at bus stop and in the markets.
Such incident can be excruciatingly painful as these victims end up losing valuables to terrible individuals that thrive in causing pain to others when they unsuspectingly stretch their swift evil hands only to steal from people.
Here are few ways to protect yourself against pickpockets.
Be vigilant at your location
When standing at a bus stop, you must intentionally be aware of your immediate location.
Be vigilant and scan the area with precision to notice anything unusual so you are never caught unaware.
Be protective of your personal belongings
You must guard your belongings jealously when standing at a bus stop. If you are a lady, holding your bag tightly to your chest is your best bet.
For the guys, you can do same if you have a briefcase or back pack with you. If not, make sure your wallet and phone are inside your side pockets with your hands placed inside your pockets as well.
Don’t Stand Alone
Even though everyone at the bus stop is a stranger to you, make sure you are not too far from other people. If you are, you make yourself quite an easy target for pickpockets.
So, you must ensure you are standing around a few other persons not necessarily in a manner that seems you might be pressing against them.
As awkward as this may sound, it makes it a bit difficult for them to perform their enterprise in such a situation.
Be conscious of your location especially if it’s one that lacks any form of security outfit like the police.
Avoid Flashy Outfits and Accessories
Avoid wearing accessories that will make you susceptible to pickpockets at the bus stop
It is fine to take off your expensive jewelries for the time you would be there and wear them much later when you perceive it’s safe to.
Stay Focused, Avoid All Distractions
Most pickpockets operate within an area they are familiar with. They are usually there before you.
So, ensure you do not get caught or lost in their different gimmicks meant to put you off guard. Look away from any form of drama that is being displayed at the bus stop.
You can decide to move slightly away from the immediate point of the drama.
Don’t stay too long at the bus stop.
This may sound strange as no sane person would want to stand too long at the bus stop.
It may happen as a result of unforeseen circumstances but ensure you board a bus as soon as possible and leave the bus stop.
