Warning for pick pocketing, sack jacking and ‘theft by deception’ in the Central Station area

We would like to inform the Antwerp diamond community on alerts concerning pick pocketing, sack jacking and ‘theft by deception’, in the streets around the Antwerp diamond area and the Central Station. In the past two weeks, the AWDC Security Office and the Local Antwerp Police received several official complaints concerning these types of crime in this area.

These crimes often happen so fast, victims aren’t even aware the crime is taking place. We advice to be cautious, keep a low profile and avoid keeping all your valuables in the same location when walking in the areas mentioned.

If you do become victim to this type of crime, we strongly advise not to resist and never attempt to capture the assailant, as they might be armed and dangerous. We urge you to record as many details that could help identification as you possibly can. Lastly, it is crucial to officially file a complaint at the local police and immediately block your bank accounts, credit cards and cell phone.