Pocket Picking Thefts Decreasing - But Con Artists Are More Active - Pocket Picking Thefts Decreasing - But Con Artists Are More Active
Pickpocketing and scam thefts in Baden-Württemberg have seen a steady decline over the past decade. Authorities report a 44.4% drop in pickpocketing cases since 2015, with 6,202 incidents recorded in 2024. The Interior Ministry credits tighter security measures, including more surveillance cameras and extra personnel, for the long-term reduction in thefts.
The downward trend in pickpocketing has been clear since 2015, reaching its lowest point in 2024. That year, reported cases fell by nearly half compared to the peak nine years earlier. Despite this progress, only 44% of attempted or completed offences were actually reported to police.
Scam thefts also dropped sharply over the same period, halving in number. In 2024, these incidents fell by 8.9% to 1,005 cases. However, early figures for 2025 suggest a slight rise in this type of crime. Financial losses from pickpocketing alone exceeded €2.2 million in 2024. Wallets were stolen in roughly half of all cases, while mobile phones accounted for about one in five thefts. Police identified 502 suspects that year, with 423 of them being non-German nationals—many from the Maghreb region. For broader theft offences in 2024, court records show that 64% of the 16,700 convictions involved individuals without a German passport. No specific arrest data for fraud-related thefts in 2025 has yet been released. To help residents stay safe, the Police Crime Prevention Program advises carrying valuables in secure inner pockets. They also recommend staying alert in crowded areas, where thieves often operate.
The decline in thefts follows years of expanded surveillance and stronger security presence. While pickpocketing remains far below its 2015 levels, the recent uptick in scam thefts suggests ongoing challenges. Police continue to urge vigilance and offer practical tips to reduce the risk of becoming a victim.
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