Pickpocketing in Rovaniemi warned as tourists influx surges

Lapland Police warned people of possible incidents of pickpocketing against the backdrop of increasing number of tourists in the area, particularly in Rovaniemi.

Pickpockets are known to move in large public events, restaurants, bars, and areas where people transition to public transportation, such as railway stations, bus terminals, and airports, said police in a press release on Thursday, adding, they typically target phones, wallets, or bags.

Police already recorded cases of pickpocketing targeting tourists in the Rovaniemi area.

Pickpocketing has traditionally been carried out by professional groups that come to Finland from abroad. These groups are highly skilled and operate discreetly.

“A few thefts have been reported over the weekend. We urge people moving through crowded areas in Lapland to stay especially observant for pickpockets. You can easily miss being a victim of theft, especially when you’re focused on new sights, events, or landscapes,” said Chief Inspector of the Lapland Police Department Pälvi Suokas.

Finns, in particular, are used to leaving their belongings on tables or hanging over chair backs in restaurants while fetching more food from the buffet or ordering drinks at the bar but police urged the people to not to do this anymore.