Venezuela: Frequent Robberies in the Castellana Area of Chacao City

1. Overview of Incidents

In the Castellana area of Chacao City, where our office is located, there have been five robbery incidents in the past three months. Despite being considered a relatively safe area, these robberies have occurred in broad daylight, so please exercise extreme caution.

2. Incident Details

In a short period, multiple robberies have occurred in the Castellana area of Chacao City, where our office is located. Foreign nationals have also been among the victims. The following are the typical methods used in these incidents:

1. The suspect operates alone, using a motorcycle.
2. The incidents occur during the daytime.
3. The suspect pretends to ask for directions, luring the victim closer before demanding valuables.
4. The suspect claims to be armed with a handgun and threatens to kill the victim if they do not comply.
5. So far, victims have handed over their valuables without resistance, so no physical harm has been reported.
6. Both foreign nationals and local Venezuelans have been targeted, indicating that these crimes are random and opportunistic.

3. Crime Prevention Measures

Although there is currently no strong lead on the suspect, the concentration of incidents in a relatively safe area over a short period raises concerns that similar robberies may continue. Please ensure you follow these crime prevention measures to avoid becoming a victim:

1. Avoid wearing flashy clothing and do not carry visible valuables when walking outside.
2. Even during the day, avoid isolated areas and try to move in groups.
3. Do not respond hastily if approached by someone you do not know.
4. When going out, carry only the minimum necessary valuables. Keep identification and credit cards separate, and consider carrying a dummy wallet to hand over if needed.
5. Do not resist if you are confronted by a robber.

Although these incidents appear to involve a single perpetrator, there is a strong possibility of accomplices, such as lookouts. Foreign nationals are particularly likely to be targeted by such crimes, so please be especially vigilant and reinforce your safety measures.