Incident Overview: On March 12, 2025, at approximately 8:50 PM, a Japanese expatriate (company employee) was visiting a convenience store at a gas station along Highway 45 in Irapuato. After spending about five minutes inside, the victim returned to his vehicle to find the rear left-side window shattered. A bag containing valuables such as a wallet and passport, which had been placed out of sight in the passenger seat, was stolen.
Safety Recommendations:
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Always lock your vehicle when stepping away, even for a short time. Never leave valuables like laptops, smartphones, passports, or bags inside the car. Always carry them with you or avoid taking unnecessary items when going out.
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Be cautious during off-peak hours, especially in areas with few people. Parking in spots away from the store or in locations without security oversight increases the risk of theft. Always check the surroundings before parking.
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For larger items that can’t be carried, storing them in the trunk can be effective, but be mindful that if a criminal sees you placing items there, it could make you a target. Store your items in the trunk before leaving, and avoid making it obvious that there are valuables inside. For hatchback vehicles, ensure that items are not visible from the outside.
