Avoid losing your things to snatch thieves

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Travellers going to the poor countries are always are being warned of bags and suitcases lost to thieves. Just turning your face on to the other side, just for a while, will result in the above things to go missing.

Malaysia cannot be considered a poor country, but bag snatching is very rampant here.It has become one of the commonest crimes being committed, often the victims getting injured fatally, and even dying piteously.

Snatch thieves seem to be always preying on the fairer sex to carry out their despicable profession. Here are some guidelines for the Malaysian women, to counter the acts of the scoundrels. I hope these will, in some ways, help them to safeguard their

belongings.

1. Have your motorbike fixed with a box with lid, and keep the bag inside.
2. Always lookout, in the front mirrors of your bike, for any motorbike following at the back. If you have the slightest doubt or suspicion, stop by the side and let it pass.
3. Always have a look around your area, for any person, or persons with motorbike loitering around. Under trees. Under any unused structures. Or even the coffee shop nearby. Are they coming out after you have passed them? Have a look behind.
4. If possible do not carry handbags. Keep the cash and valuables in a small purse.
5. Do not wear expensive jewelry when going out. If you want to attend a function go with a male family member. The presence of a male companion will, to a certain extent, discourage snatch thieves from doing their acts.
6. If you must carry a handbag do not put any valuables in it, such as cash, your I.C., passport, bankbook, bankcards, etc. Without the valuables, the handbag is not worth much. So don’t hold it tightly.
7. Do not loop the belt of your bag around your hand; you will get dragged up, unceremoniously, when the snatch thief pulls it. Your life is more important than the bag.
8. Report to the police of any attempts by snatch thieves, even if you did not lose anything, so that the police will be aware of the place and make more patrols.