- JEDDAH: Some 62 robberies targeting Saudi tourists took place in France in 2010, said a source at the Saudi embassy in Paris.
- Valuables and cash totaling over 3 million euros were robbed, Al-Eqtisadiah newspaper reported.
Khaled Al-Khuraiji, head of Saudi Affairs at the Saudi embassy in Paris, said there are organized gangs that monitor the movement of Saudi and gulf tourists and break into their apartments when they are out.
“Three Saudi families were robbed last week alone when thieves broke into their furnished apartment,” said Al-Khuraiji.
The majority of stolen items include jewelry and huge sums of cash. As a result, the Saudi embassy in Paris deals with French police authorities through official channels.
“One Saudi man was robbed of $1 million. All Saudi tourists should be extra careful and protect their belongings. Saudis should also register their passports at the Saudi embassy when they arrive,” said Al-Khuraiji.
He added that Saudi tourists should familiarize themselves with France before traveling to ensure they are not targeted by thieves when in the country.