Question 1

What is the "Fake plain-clothes police passport and money check" scam in Sucre?

Accepted Answer

A man in street clothes flashes a fake badge, claims to be undercover police or an anti-drug/counterfeit-currency unit, and demands to inspect your passport and wallet, often after an accomplice posing as a fellow tourist has struck up conversation. Once he handles your documents and cash he palms notes or walks off with everything. Real Bolivian police do not stop tourists in the street for casual passport or money checks. Never hand over your passport or wallet to anyone in plain clothes. Refuse politely, say you will only deal with uniformed officers at a marked station, and step into the nearest shop, bank, or hotel lobby and ask staff to help. Carry a passport photocopy, not the original.

Question 2

What is the "Mustard or liquid distraction pickpocketing" scam in Sucre?

Accepted Answer

Someone surreptitiously squirts mustard, sauce, or a liquid onto your clothing or bag, then a 'helpful' passer-by points it out and fusses over cleaning you up while an accomplice lifts your phone, wallet, or daypack. It is a classic team move used in crowded markets and around busy plazas. If you suddenly find a substance on you, do not stop and let strangers clean you. Hold your bag tight, step back, and walk to a safe spot to clean yourself. Treat over-eager helpers who appear instantly as part of the setup.

Street Scams in Sucre

Fake plain-clothes police passport and money check

Mustard or liquid distraction pickpocketing

Experienced a scam here?