Be especially careful with personal possessions at this time of year

[Janet]

Just a word of caution with Reyes coming up. Petty crimes are plentiful at any time of year given the economic situation for many in these islands, but coming up to Christmas-present time on 6 January, desperation often means an increase. Only today I've had someone asking me to pass on a warning about an assault on his wife who was the victim of a couple of youths on a small motorcycle in a quiet street (this was in Santa Cruz but it's not an isolated incident) where they drove up behind the couple and the pillion passenger grabbed her handbag before the pair sped off. I'm not trying to provoke fear, but do take care, not just generally, but at this time of year in particular when there is always a spike in such crimes. JA

[Guanche]

This reminded me of something I kept forgetting to post. Where have all the Roma gone? Apart from the usual women who beg whilst sitting in the street the rest seem to have vanished. I haven't seen any of the Roma gangs of young girls in Santa Cruz for ages. Even the begging women have been replaced by newer women.  It would be interesting to know if they are just keeping themselves to the South or they've been thrown out?

[Myrtle Hogan-Lance]

Excellent question Pelinor.

[Janet]

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The police themselves have now issued advice in this respect. This morning the Guardia Civil have issued the above photo along with advice to walk on the inside of pavements, and particularly to carry any bags on that inner side.