Police tips on how not to get conned while shopping

MANILA, Philippines—Beware of people acting like your “best friend” when you’re out shopping this holiday season.

It’s a common modus operandi used by con artists and thieves to steal not just from shoppers but from store owners as well. While a customer is busy talking to the salesperson, the perpetrator cuts in on the conversation, acting like he or she knows the customer to confuse both persons. Once they are distracted, the thief is able to pocket one or more items for sale.

The “best friend” modus is one of eight detailed in a flyer that the Manila Police District has published with security guidelines for the yuletide.

These tactics are used by thieves to take advantage of shoppers caught up in the holiday rush, said MPD public information office head Supt. Marissa Bruno.

In shopping areas, another common modus operandi used to steal from stores is called “the switch.” Perpetrators pretend to be interested in buying items which are usually boxed, only to subtly switch empty boxes with those carrying merchandise.

Aboard jeepneys, thieves and robbers usually go for the “laglag barya” or “tutok kalawit” tactic. With the former, thieves “accidentally” drop coins on the floor and ask passengers to help pick them up. With their attention focused on the scattered coins, passengers fail to notice that pickpockets have already taken their valuables.

The “tutok kalawit” modus involves the use of small sharp weapons like a knife or an ice pick, which robbers use to discreetly threaten victims into giving up their belongings without attracting public attention.

The “pasa-bilis” style is done by a group whose members quickly pass from one person to another stolen items to avoid being detected. Others simply just slash one’s bag or pocket to get what’s inside, or quickly grab unattended items as they pass by.

The success of these modus operandi bank on the distraction of victims, said Bruno. “Of course, while we will have police officers stationed in shopping areas, especially those with high foot traffic like Divisoria, the public also has a personal responsibility to remain vigilant and be alert for any possible criminal activity,” she added.

Aside from a list and description of thieves’ ruses, the MPD flyers contain safety tips on the use of Christmas lights and fireworks. They also carry a reminder about a law that prohibits the use of certain firecrackers.

Bruno said the flyers are to be released in the first week of December, and will be distributed in schools, offices and shopping areas in Manila.