Crowded events are prime targets for thieves. Here’s how to protect yourself and your valuables:

High-Risk Situations

When Pickpockets Strike Most

• Dense crowds: During popular performances when attention is diverted
• Entry/exit points: When people are focused on getting in or out
• Payment areas: Near food vendors, merchandise booths
• Bathroom areas: When people are distracted or in lines
• Transport hubs: Matatu stages, parking areas after events

Common Pickpocket Techniques in Kenya

• The bump: Someone bumps into you while accomplice steals
• The distraction: Someone asks directions while partner picks pockets
• The sandwich: Two people squeeze you between them
• The helper: Someone offers to help with bags while stealing
• The spill: Someone spills something on you while accomplice steals

Protective Strategies

What to Carry

• Minimum cash: Only what you need for the event
• Split money: Keep cash in different pockets/locations
• Copies of IDs: Leave originals at home, carry photocopies
• Old phone: Bring a basic phone instead of expensive smartphone
• Dummy wallet: Cheap wallet with small bills to hand over if mugged

What NOT to Carry

• Expensive jewelry: Leave gold chains, expensive watches at home
• Multiple cards: Bring only one ATM card, leave credit cards behind
• Large amounts of cash: Bring exactly what you need plus KSh 500 emergency
• Important documents: Passport, original ID, work documents
• Expensive accessories: Designer bags, high-end electronics

Smart Storage Techniques

Secure Pockets

• Front pockets only: Never keep valuables in back pockets
• Zipped compartments: Button or zip all pockets
• Inside jacket pockets: Hardest for thieves to access
• Money belts: Hidden under clothing for larger amounts
• Shoe storage: Small bills in socks or shoes (emergency only)

Bag Security

• Cross-body bags: Harder to snatch than shoulder bags
• Zippers forward: Keep bag openings facing your body
• No bag: Best option – use pockets only
• Group bag: One person designated to carry everyone’s items
• Cheap bag: Don’t carry expensive handbags to events

Behavioral Protection

Stay Alert

• Trust instincts: If something feels wrong, it probably is
• Avoid distractions: Stay focused in crowded areas
• Watch for followers: Be aware of people paying too much attention to you
• Group awareness: Keep an eye on friends’ belongings too

Body Language

• Walk confidently: Thieves target people who look lost or distracted
• Stay aware: Keep your head up, observe surroundings
• Avoid phone display: Don’t flash expensive phones unnecessarily
• Quick transactions: Pay quickly at vendors, don’t count money openly

Venue-Specific Risks

Carnivore Events

• Parking area: High theft zone, don’t leave items visible in cars
• Food lines: Pickpockets work these areas heavily
• Dance floor: Easy to steal in crowded dancing areas
• Exit crowds: Major risk when everyone leaves at once

CBD Events (KICC, Hotels)

• Street approaches: Thieves target people walking from matatu stops
• Elevator areas: Confined spaces with distracted people
• Bathroom areas: Common theft locations
• Parking garages: Isolated areas with security gaps

Festival Events (Uhuru Gardens, etc.)

• Entry queues: Long lines where people get distracted
• Food courts: Multiple vendors, confusion, crowded
• Stage areas: When crowds surge toward performers
• Camping areas: Overnight events have tent break-ins

If You’re Targeted

Active Theft Prevention

• Make noise: Shout “Stop! Thief!” loudly
• Hold tight: Don’t let go of bags easily
• Run toward security: Head for uniformed personnel
• Don’t chase: If they get something, don’t pursue alone

After Theft Occurs

• Report immediately: Find event security or police
• Cancel cards: Call bank immediately if cards were stolen
• Document everything: Write down what was stolen, when, where
• Check with friends: Sometimes items get passed around in crowds

Prevention with Technology

Phone Security

• Screen lock: Strong passwords, not simple patterns
• Find My Phone: Enable location tracking
• Backup contacts: Write down key numbers separately
• Insurance info: Know your policy details before you need them

Payment Security

• Mobile money: Use M-Pesa instead of cash when possible
• Small transactions: Don’t display large amounts of money
• Split payments: Different people pay for different things
• Emergency stash: Hide KSh 500 separately for transport home

Golden Rule: If you can’t afford to lose it, don’t bring it to the event. The best security is not having valuable items to steal in the first place.