Serbian tourists hit by organized thefts in Greece and Italy

During the peak summer travel season, Serbian holidaymakers have become prime targets of organized criminals in Greece and Italy. Thieves use electronic signal‑jammers to keep car doors unlocked, break windows in seconds, and employ non‑violent entry methods. In some apartments, groups use sedative spray to incapacitate guests before stealing valuables.

Juta Aleksandar Seničić, director of the National Association of Tourist Agencies, warns that common tourist mistakes—leaving bags or electronics in unattended cars, parking near border crossings or popular beach lots, and keeping doors or mosquito nets open—make them easy prey. He advises travelers to keep doors shut, secure windows, and photograph or copy passports and ID cards.

In Greece, foreign‑registered cars packed with luggage are especially vulnerable on the first and last days of a trip. In Italy, pickpocketing and bag snatching have risen sharply, with many perpetrators being non‑local criminals who exploit crowded historic centres and train stations.

Victims are urged to contact local police (dial 100 in Greece) immediately, obtain an official report for insurance claims, block compromised bank cards, and seek assistance from Serbian consular services if documents are stolen.