Spain, like any other country in the world, has its share of crime. At the moment, so called ‘road muggings’ are hitting the headlines. You might think Spain’s roads are completely lawless from what you read in the papers, but a little advance warning should help you to keep out of trouble.
On main roads from the airports and ferry ports, bogus police officers are stopping unsuspecting motorists and robbing them. If you’re driving a car with British number plates, or a rental car with a sticker from the company in the back, the criminal fraternity see you as an easy target. The AP7 Motorway from the French Border down to Alicante is a particular blackspot for road muggings.
A favourite trick is for an unmarked car with a flashing light to stop you. One ‘police officer’ will get out of the car and ask to search your bag or wallet for ‘drug money,’ while the other crook remains in the car, ready to make a quick getaway if necessary.
Alarm bells should be ringing here, because real police officers operate in pairs, just as they do in England. The law in Spain is different, but not that different. The police will never ask to see anything other than your documents – driving licence, insurance, MOT or ITV, Vehicle Registration Document, so never hand over money or luggage. If stopped, keep your doors locked and converse through a slightly open window. Make sure potential thieves can’t reach your bag or wallet simply by reaching into the vehicle.
Unmarked police cars always have a flashing sign in the rear window reading ‘Policia’ or ‘Guardia Civil.’ Officers dealing with traffic-related incidents are always in uniform, and real plain clothes policemen will be happy to show their identification. If in doubt, phone the police and ask for confirmation that you have been stopped by genuine officers. At this point, the crooks will drive off and you will have had a lucky escape.
Another trick used by ‘road muggers’ is to flash lights and point at your vehicle, indicating that something is the matter. Resist the urge to stop and check until you reach a busy, well lit area. Pull into the next petrol station if you suspect there may indeed be a problem, but never stop on a quiet road, especially at night.
Always keep a charged mobile phone in the car, together with the numbers of the national and local police, so you can summon help if necessary. For Guardia Civil call 062, or call 112 for local police. For more advice on safe driving in Spain, check out the UK in Spain website. Be careful out there!
