Summer Highway Heists: Mossos Warn of Thieves’ Diversion Tactics Targeting Moroccan Travelers

Faced with a surge in vehicle thefts during the summer period, the Catalan police, the Mossos d’Esquadra, had alerted motorists a few months ago. The goal is to show, through a concrete case, a theft technique by deception that is rampant on highway rest areas. Bladi.net has decided to update the article to warn the many MREs who are going to Morocco this summer.

The modus operandi is simple and based on diversion. As shown in the video released by the law enforcement, a first individual signals to a motorist to stop, claiming a mechanical problem or a flat tire. While the driver gets out of the vehicle to check the supposed damage, an accomplice takes advantage of the confusion to enter the other side of the car and steal bags and valuables.

"Look how they act. While one distracts you, the other takes your belongings," summarizes the police message accompanying the images.

Although this method is not new, it experiences a strong resurgence every summer with the increase in travel. The authorities insist that these thieves rely on the credulity and lack of attention of their victims to act.

Faced with this threat, the Mossos d’Esquadra recall several essential safety instructions:

• Inside the vehicle, always keep control of your belongings and lock the doors.
• Do not leave any valuables in sight, even during a short stop.
• Beware of distractions. Thieves take advantage of a moment of inattention to act. Remain vigilant.
• If another user signals you to stop, only do so in a secure location.
• If you have to get out of your vehicle, systematically lock it.
• Never lose sight of your belongings.

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