The season raises the fear of robberies and scams in Colombia.
Weapon assaults.
Taken from the internet / reference image.
The New Year’s Eve season brings celebrations, shopping and full streets, but also an increase in the perception of insecurity.
A university survey carried out in Colombia among people of different ages revealed that 81% of citizens feel very unsafe or somewhat unsafe during December, a month characterized by greater circulation of money, increased mobility and frequent crowds.
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According to the study, 63.9% of those surveyed mainly fear being a victim of street robbery or robbery. Other crimes such as digital fraud, freight and home theft complete the panorama of fear identified among those surveyed.
The analysis carried out by the Law program at the Manuela Beltrán University indicated that, for the majority of the people consulted, the risk is concentrated in specific spaces. The street and public transport were indicated by 71.7% as the places where they feel most vulnerable during this season.
Insecurity and citizen perception in December
Researcher Óscar Mejía, from that institution’s Law Program, explained that December activates an additional state of alert in citizens. He pointed out that people know that this month more money circulates and thefts increase, so they remain cautious.
The specialist stated that the feeling of insecurity does not respond only to the actual occurrence of the crime. It is also influenced by the constant consumption of news and videos on social networks about theft and extortion, which increases the perception of risk.
He said hypervigilance can backfire. He explained that behaviors such as touching one’s pockets or constantly looking to the sides can attract the attention of criminals, who interpret these gestures as signs of courage.
Fear also changes daily habits
According to the survey, 69.9% of respondents avoid going out with cash or jewelry, while 15% prefer not to publish their plans on social networks. 11% acknowledged not adopting special measures.
For those who participated in the survey, the factors that most affect safety in December are crowds and alcohol consumption, with 39.5%. Added to these situations are unemployment, economic need and the perception of low police presence.
Security recommendations to avoid theft
Faced with this panorama, experts provided a series of recommendations to reduce the risk during the holiday season. The suggestions are focused on the street, money management, the use of social networks, mobility and the home.
The advice includes avoiding handling your cell phone or counting money in public, not walking alone on long or poorly lit routes, and keeping valuables in internal pockets or crossbody bags to reduce exposure.
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It is also advisable to prioritize digital payments, not withdraw large sums of money unaccompanied, be wary of offers of help and secure doors and windows before leaving.
Source: Integrated Information System
