As the Schueberfouer kicks off, police are warning residents and visitors to be on their guard against pickpockets, especially on public transport. Tim Pauly from the national crime prevention service (SNPC) explained that thefts on trams and other public transport typically surge during major gatherings and events, as crowds and distractions make it easier for thieves to operate. He advises people to keep wallets and phones in inner pockets and to wear handbags at the front rather than on their backs, as theft can happen in a matter of seconds in a crowd.
Two women who fell victim to pickpockets during the Oktav festival in spring told RTL how quickly they were targeted. At around 4pm at the Hamilius tram stop, the thieves used a classic distraction manoeuvre amid the jostling crowd, ultimately making off with €30 in cash. Neither their bank cards nor mobile phones interested the perpetrators.
Both in terms of prevention and in responding to incidents, the police and Luxtram have established close daily cooperation. For security reasons, neither details their strategies nor the specifics of their collaboration. Helge Dorstewitz, CEO of Luxtram, told RTL that in addition to police patrols, a private security service is present on the trams throughout operating hours, helping to deter criminal activity.
Thieves' methods are often so refined that victims fail to realise they're being robbed, until it's too late.
Tim Pauly confirmed that both opportunistic and more organised groups are active, taking advantage of the fact that people are often distracted by the festivities, keeping an eye on their children, or chatting to friends. He warned that some pickpocketing gangs are highly trained and very effective, emphasising that if people do not keep a close eye on their valuables, they can disappear very quickly.
Even when thieves appear to be targeting only cash, victims are advised to immediately block their bank cards and file a police report. The police will once again have a dedicated office at the Schueberfouer this year to assist victims and collect complaints.
