BTN News: In recent weeks, a worrying new robbery method in Bogotá has been making headlines, especially on social media platforms like TikTok. Women, in particular, are being targeted in upscale areas such as Andino mall and 85th Street, raising serious safety concerns. This new tactic involves groups of men approaching women with flattering comments and handshakes, creating unease about potential drugging or other forms of assault. These incidents highlight the growing dangers faced by women in public spaces in Bogotá, as criminals appear to be using psychological tactics to lure their victims. Here’s everything you need to know about this alarming trend.
Organized Groups Targeting Women in Bogotá’s Shopping Districts
Reports from social media suggest that women in Bogotá are increasingly becoming the targets of a disturbing new robbery method. The method appears organized, with multiple men working together to engage women in seemingly harmless conversations before attempting physical contact through a handshake.
According to one TikTok user, @yulianadiaz00, this tactic has become common in well-known commercial areas, including Andino mall and 85th Street. The user shared her personal experience, detailing how she and a friend were approached multiple times by different men using identical compliments and behaviors. “It was strange because they approached us with similar comments about our outfits, and we realized something was wrong after the third man did the same,” she explained in her viral video.
How the Scam Unfolds
The reported robbery scheme unfolds in stages, with the first interaction usually happening as women enter or exit a shopping center. The men begin by complimenting the victims’ appearances or outfits. Initially, these remarks seem harmless, but as the women move between stores, the interactions repeat with different men, creating an unsettling pattern.
The TikTok user explained that she and her friend were first approached outside Andino mall, then again outside the Zara store on 85th Street. When the third man attempted to engage them, they became suspicious. “He tried to shake my hand, and I refused. After that, we saw him regroup with about five other men who had previously approached us,” she recalled.
The Role of Scopolamine in Criminal Tactics
A significant fear among the women who have encountered this new robbery tactic is the use of scopolamine, a dangerous drug commonly employed by criminals in Bogotá. Scopolamine, also known as “Devil’s Breath,” can leave victims disoriented, allowing thieves to rob or abduct them. Several women reported that they believed the men’s intent was to drug them through the handshake, which is why it’s vital not to accept any physical contact from strangers.
“Don’t let them touch you, don’t shake their hands,” @yulianadiaz00 warned in her video. “We’ve heard stories where women are drugged and kidnapped this way. It’s terrifying.”
Community Reactions and Warnings
After the TikTok video gained traction, many other women came forward, sharing similar experiences in Bogotá’s shopping districts. One commenter mentioned experiencing the same approach at Unicentro mall, while another claimed she was followed by a man for several blocks after he complimented her.
A woman shared: “We had to threaten to call the police when a man followed my friends and me after making a comment about our outfits. It’s becoming more common in areas like 85th Street.”
These reports have led to increased concerns for safety among Bogotá’s residents, especially women who frequent these popular commercial hubs.
How to Protect Yourself from This Robbery Tactic
With the rise of this organized robbery method targeting women, it’s important to take precautions when in public spaces. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid engaging with strangers: If someone you don’t know tries to compliment you or engage in conversation, politely decline and keep your distance.
- Don’t accept physical contact: Refuse any handshakes or other forms of physical contact from people you don’t know.
- Stay aware of your surroundings: Be vigilant about people who may be following you or waiting outside stores for extended periods.
- Use trusted transportation: When leaving shopping centers or crowded areas, opt for trusted ride-sharing services or pre-arranged transportation.
- Report suspicious behavior: If you feel threatened or notice suspicious behavior, don’t hesitate to contact local authorities or mall security.
Growing Danger in Bogotá’s Upscale Districts
This new scam in Bogotá highlights a troubling trend of criminals targeting women in busy, upscale areas. Locations like Andino mall and 85th Street have become hotspots for these incidents, but other areas, such as Unicentro mall, have also seen similar reports.
As more women share their experiences, it’s clear that this robbery method is designed to exploit trust and vulnerability in public spaces. The organized nature of the scheme, with multiple men working together, suggests a high level of planning and coordination.
Authorities Urged to Take Action
Despite growing awareness on social media, there has been little formal response from local authorities. Women in Bogotá are calling for greater protection and security in high-traffic areas like Andino and 85th Street, where these incidents are most frequent.
As these reports continue to circulate, it’s crucial for Bogotá residents to remain vigilant and take precautions to avoid becoming victims of this increasingly common robbery tactic. Public safety campaigns and stronger law enforcement presence in commercial areas could go a long way in preventing these crimes from escalating further.
Conclusion
The emergence of this new robbery method targeting women in Bogotá is alarming and requires immediate attention from both the public and authorities. While women are sharing their stories on social media to raise awareness, it’s essential to stay alert, avoid unnecessary physical contact with strangers, and report suspicious activities to local security or police. Bogotá’s upscale areas, once considered safe, are now seeing a rise in organized crime, and taking the right precautions is key to ensuring personal safety.
