Quito Ecuador: Safety Issues on Public Transport

Source: Elcomercio.com
1. Thieves are often working in groups on trolleybus.
2. Assailants will often distract passenger while another person will make the theft.
3. Attempt to sit next to another passenger and not be seated in area where there are not many passengers. This will make you larger target.
4. Taking a nearly empty bus may put you at higher risk.
5. Be cautious of candy sellers (caramelos – candies).
6. Peak traffic times on the trolley and buses, passengers are at higher risk of being robbed.
7. If you are a victim on the trolebús alert the driver who can activate the panic button which will summon police.
8. Security cameras have been increased at trolebus stops to help aid authorities.
9. Authorities are recognizing some of the individuals committing crimes but indicate the transportation system because it is public cannot deny service to those boarding.
10. 26 percent of robberies reported in Quito from January through September 2013 occurred on public transport.
11. Don’t use your cellphone while on public transport.
12. Don’t wear jewelry.
13. Put your backpack or purse around your chest.
14. Many thieves are using knives to cut away backpacks, purses, ect.
REPORTED THEFTS FROM JANUARY THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2013 BY EACH TRANSPORTATION ENTITY.
Trolebus – 128
Ecovia – 75
Corredor Sur Occidental – 67
Corredor Sur Oriental – 135
Corrdor Central Norte – 120
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