Incident Details:
- Date and Time:
- Date: March 14 (Thursday)
- Time: Around 5:30 PM
- Location:
- Area: Paulista Avenue (approximately 100 meters from the consulate)
- Incident Summary:
- The victim was walking alone on the sidewalk of Paulista Avenue from Japan House São Paulo (JHSP) toward the Top Center building around the specified time. Near the area with a bank just before Top Center, another pedestrian warned the victim that they were being followed by a group of four men. When the victim looked back, they saw a tall man (around 2 meters) walking. As the victim tried to leave the spot, someone reached for their neck. The thief, whose face was not clearly visible but was different from the tall man, immediately withdrew without stealing anything and headed toward the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP). The tall man also followed in the same direction. The victim crossed to the other side of Paulista Avenue and explained the situation to two police officers present (the initial warning pedestrian also accompanied them). The officers advised that the backpack on the victim’s shoulder was vulnerable to theft and recommended carrying it in front of the body. No personal injury was sustained by the victim.
- Losses:
- None.
- Safety Tips:
- (1) Although there are several police officers stationed on Paulista Avenue, thieves exploit moments of inattention to target pedestrians’ belongings. Recently, a similar incident occurred where a bag was slashed and a smartphone was stolen. It is important to maintain constant vigilance on the street and occasionally scan the surroundings to show alertness.
- (2) Limit the amount of luggage carried while going out and avoid carrying valuables if possible. If valuables must be carried, keep them separated.
- (3) In the event of an incident, resist attempts to fight back, as this could be life-threatening. Follow the thief’s demands without resistance or sudden movements that could be misunderstood as attempts to escape.
Comment