Shoppers in Saudi Arabia: Beware!

A recent police advisory from Police Department in Riyadh was issued recently due to the uncontrolled street crimes in the city.

Below are the police instructions to the public I received thru email translated in English (full text).

1. Try not to go alone to the market in night. Must be a group of two to three.
2. Avoid carrying more cash than is needed for that round.
3. Never trust anyone saying that he is a policeman - even if he shows to you his ID card!! & even if he is wearing police uniform (you can trust him only if he is coming or driving a police car).
4. Try to avoid violence & do not obey his order if he wants your Iqama (residence visa) or wallet . If he becomes violent, either you beat him or seek assistance from passer-by to beat him & hand him over to police.

REASONS:

There are at least 6 to 10 thieves roaming daily in Wazarat area, Al-Batha District, Al-Malaz District and now in some places in Olaya and Sulaimania District in Riyadh . These people are using un-registered gun and sharp objects, some of them claims to be police officers by showing their uncleared Arabic ID. There are also some incidents that these people will be offering you a free ride to your house and/or ask some assistance to guide them where to go. Always lock your car doors especially if you park your car in grocery markets, shopping center or in some flea market places.

The police needs public help to catch these thieves, but the problem most victims reported after they have already been robbed.

NOTE: Report to your nearest Police Department or seek the help from any Police checkpoint if you happened to experience same. Try to use your Mobile Camera in order to catch these people and get their car plate number.

PLEASE PASS THIS MESSAGE TO YOUR FRIENDS, RELATIVES AND LOVE ONES WHO ARE WORKING IN SAUDI ARABIA TO SAVE LIVES.

A Public service from the Police Department and CID of Saudi Arabia , Riyadh .