Argentina: Theft Incident at Accommodation Facility in Buenos Aires City, Constitución District

Incident Overview:

1. Date and Time:
   • February 8, 2024 (Thursday), around 8:00 AM (discovery)
2. Location:
   • Accommodation facility in the Constitución district, Buenos Aires (Dormitory Room: 6-bed room)
3. Victim and Details of the Theft:
   • Victim: Japanese male in his 20s
   • Details of Theft: Two bags containing valuables (passport, wallet with USD and ARS cash, credit cards, identification, etc.). The victim was unharmed.
4. Circumstances of the Theft:
   • The victim checked into the accommodation on the evening of February 7. The dormitory room housed five individuals: one Brazilian, one Turkish, one Argentine, one person of unknown nationality, and the victim (three bunk beds and personal lockers provided). After returning from dinner and storing his bags in a personal locker without locking it, the victim discovered the bags were missing the next morning. Upon informing the reception and reviewing the security camera footage, it was found that the Argentine individual from the same room had checked out without completing the procedure and was now missing.

Safety Recommendations:

1. Secure Your Belongings:
   • When staying in dormitory-type accommodations, avoid leaving valuables, electronic devices, and expensive accessories exposed. Always use the personal lockers provided and ensure they are securely locked. Check that the lock functions properly and report any issues to the reception.
2. Awareness in Dormitory Accommodations:
   • Dormitory-style accommodations are popular among travelers due to their budget-friendly nature. However, they often have lower security levels, making them more susceptible to theft by other guests or external intruders. Be aware that you might not receive support from the facility in case of theft. It is crucial to maintain high vigilance and take necessary precautions.
3. Be Cautious of Potential Conflicts:
   • Due to the shared nature of dormitory rooms, even if you do not fall victim to theft, you may encounter issues such as being suspected of theft. Exercise caution and be mindful of potential conflicts.