● Numerous cases involving Japanese nationals falling victim to armed robbery, bag snatching, pickpocketing, theft, and drugged robbery continue to occur in Metro Manila and its surrounding areas.
● Below are recent trends in crimes targeting Japanese nationals and related safety tips. Please maintain heightened awareness, act with caution to avoid trouble, and implement safety measures.
● Crime rates tend to rise during the Christmas season. Residents, tourists, and business travelers are urged to heed the following advisory and maintain strong vigilance.
1. Armed Robberies
(1) Incidents of robbers approaching pedestrians at night and pointing what appears to be a gun to steal shoulder bags have been reported in succession.
(2) In some cases, victims were struck on the hand with the grip of the weapon when they attempted to resist or hold onto their bag.
[Tips 1] Avoid walking at night whenever possible. If you must walk, follow the safety tips provided in the link below and exercise utmost caution.
Link to advisory (Japanese)
[Tips 2] In case of a robbery, prioritize your personal safety and never resist.
2. Bag Snatching by Motorcyclists
Incidents of two-person motorcycle teams approaching from behind to snatch handbags, mobile phones, and other valuables are frequent.
[Tips 1] Stay alert to approaching motorcycles carrying two riders. If you notice them, move to a location out of their reach to protect yourself.
[Tips 2] When walking, stay as far from the road as possible, carry bags on the side opposite the street, and position them in front of your body to make them harder to grab.
3. Pickpocketing and Theft
(1) There are frequent reports of individuals discovering their bags had been opened and valuables such as passports and wallets stolen. These incidents occur not only on the street but also in shopping malls, jeepneys, airports, and even on planes.
(2) Victims are sometimes surrounded by children or homeless individuals who distract them by begging for money, allowing thieves to steal wallets or phones from bags or pockets.
(3) Theft of unattended bags in restaurants remains common.
[Tips 1] Carry only the minimum amount of cash needed, avoid storing all valuables in one bag, and distribute them across your person.
[Tips 2] Lone pedestrians are frequent targets. Avoid using your phone while walking, and do not stop unnecessarily when approached by strangers. If you feel unsafe, seek help from nearby individuals by calling out loudly.
[Tips 3] Always keep your bags in sight, take them with you when leaving your seat, and never leave them unattended.
[Tips 4] Mobile phone theft is widespread, and there are many cases where victims struggle to contact family or access important digital documents. Backup your important contacts and files in advance to avoid difficulties.
4. Drugged Robberies
Reports of young travelers falling victim to drugged robberies in Metro Manila continue unabated. Here is a summary of the methods, cases, and safety precautions:
(1) What is a Drugged Robbery?
Offenders, often operating in groups, befriend a target (the victim) and offer food or drinks laced with fast-acting drugs in transit or at a restaurant, rendering the victim unconscious to steal their belongings.
(2) Methods and Examples
- In tourist spots like Intramuros or Rizal Park, strangers approach victims with various pretexts: asking for directions, claiming they have relatives in Japan, or suggesting joint activities.
- Once the victim agrees, they are taken to restaurants or travel by taxi. Common cases include:
- Being served drugged food or drinks, losing consciousness, and waking up in their hotel room to find their wallet, phone, and credit cards missing, with significant unauthorized transactions made.
- Boarding a taxi and being joined by two others who surround the victim, offering drugged snacks. Victims regain consciousness on the street, realizing their valuables are gone.
[Tips 1] Many victims said they let their guard down because the offenders appeared trustworthy or unthreatening. Be aware of their manipulative tactics.
[Tips 2] Psychoactive drugs can pose severe health risks. Never accept drinks or food from strangers, and avoid accompanying them easily.
5. Other Reported Cases
(1) A victim using a taxi between airport terminals was charged an exorbitant fare of 12,000 pesos for a short ride and paid out of fear.
(2) A victim befriended a woman during a walk, went out for karaoke with her, and was extorted by a man who suddenly appeared, claiming the woman had been assaulted and demanding compensation (honey trap).
[Tips 1] Record taxi details before boarding, avoid riding alone whenever possible, and consider using safer services like Grab.
[Tips 2] Be cautious and avoid engaging with unknown individuals. Using dating apps involves risks; exercise discretion.
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