Beware of the spit trick

(CS) With a number of tricks by pickpockets already well known, there appears to be a new and particularly unpleasant one on the rise.

Reported by a wort.lu/en reader, the trick sees the crook “accidentally” spit on his victim walking down the street. They then appear to want to help clean up the mess, using the distraction to steal for example wallets or phones easily accessible in pockets or open bags.

The reader, who wished to remain anonymous, said he had been spat on twice now in the area near Rue du Fort Wallis and Rue Bender. In the first incident a mobile phone was stolen.

Police frequently warn to be suspicious of any such tricks, although it is the first time that this particular one has been brought to our attention.

Other tricks which police warn of include the ring trick, in which the victim is handed a ring, or other object, they “dropped”, with the perpetrators using the object as a way to ask for money or to cause distraction while they attempt to steal from the victim.

Police urge caution any time you are approached by a stranger, even if they are just asking for directions. Additionally, mobile phones, wallets or other valuables should be carried out of sight and safely stored away.

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