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Robbed in SJO - What... not to do...

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CaptainCruise

Post subject: Robbed in SJO - What... not to do...

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 2:05 am

Just Learning The Gulch!

Joined: Mon Jun 14, 2004 12:59 am
Posts: 38
Location: Atlanta

Tonight I was robbed close to downtown while walking from ElPresidente to ZonaBlue.

1) Yes, you can call me stupid. I was walking at night almost 5 blocks from Central by myself... should have taken a taxi... or been in daylight.
2) Yes, I was headed to meet a mujer at a predetermined location... after she got off work... should have had her come to the hotel.
3) I was headed down one side of the street, coming from the other direction were 2 men. One stopped and crossed to my side, the other continued and crossed behind me. One had a glock; the other a revolver.

... got my wallet, $200, 3 credit cards, drivers license and my CRT card.

I filed a police report in 3-5 minutes with 2 rovers on motor scooters. warned them about the guns, they went in the right direction for 2 blocks. Then turned left... 3-5 minutes later while I am walking back towards El Pres, I see them questioning 2 guys that were not close to my description ... in the wrong direction from where I directed them...
... helped them remember the description ... and the direction... they then headed back to their main office to get more assistance...

Within 1 hour from being robbed I was on line. The bad guys had already tried to use two of the cards.

The GREAT news is my passport was in my safe, as was my backup (different) ATM card... as was a single sheet of paper with all my info on my cards: numbers to call, copies of the numbers, etc.

I continued on line, have 2 replacement cards on the way by DHL and have used the Western Union on-line service to wire myself some cash (cost $35)

Experience was worth more than the lost money... have been in difficult situations in Detroit, LA and Miami, but never so intimidated as this... Got a knot on my head from the glock and a sore knee where one of them kicked me in the back of the leg before they ran off.

YES, I feel sort of dumb... and REALLY lucky. In 20+ trips to SJO, this was my first really negative experience. I don't think San Jose is as dangerous as 9 mile in Detroit, parts of Watts or S.Mia, but DO carry copies of everything for your safe... DON'T carry your passport. DO use taxis at night...

OH, I FORGOT THE REALLY IMPORTANT QUESTION... can I get a replacement CRT Life Membership card... probably not a problem :-)

Travel Safe, CaptainCruise... still cruising...

_________________
One more day. two more beers.. three more times... :-)

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Osgood

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 6:30 am

PHD From Del Rey University!

Joined: Tue Nov 04, 2003 1:59 pm
Posts: 1136
Location: fort lauderdale

glad to hear you are still cruising,can you tell us exactly where you were,near zona blue,walking around parque morazan or nearer to the presidente........

_________________
Jaco is called little USA by all ticos

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Phoenix Rising

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 7:27 am

PHD From Del Rey University!

Joined: Tue May 16, 2006 4:12 pm
Posts: 5165
Location: The City of Eternal Spring

That sucks Captain.

Seems like these scumbags have scoped us out and know our routines. When I was there for my virgin trip 2 weeks ago I walked everywhere, stared down the furtive characters in the street who I believed to be more of a nuisance than a danger. In fact all of the chicas I dragged down to the Balmoral from the Del Rey seemed to have no problem walking down the hill. But after reading this forum extensively since I'm home, the next trip, which will commence tonight, I will be taking taxis after dark if I'm alone. Can't fight the guns.

That's a good idea about the slip of paper with the numbers on it. I didn't think of that one and I will do that right now.

Phoenix

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TicaFan

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 7:34 am

PHD From Del Rey University!

Joined: Tue Sep 13, 2005 10:59 am
Posts: 2078

I hate hearing how well armed these guys were.

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Tequila

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 8:31 am

Not a Newbie I just don't post much!

Joined: Mon Mar 08, 2004 9:07 pm
Posts: 98

I am glad you came thru this and are not too shaken, or worse. It must have been awful. You would think that with all the tourist dollars coming into SJ they would start to have more security such as night time foot patrols, etc. This can eventually be really bad for business if they do not get it under control.

T

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CapoD2TCapo

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 9:25 am

Ticas ask me for advice!

Joined: Wed Sep 03, 2003 12:54 am
Posts: 448
Location: North Eastern New Jersey

Sorry to hear of your expierience.. and as stated many times if in doubt TAKE A TAXI.... I guess you won't make that mistate... Hope it doesn't ruin your trip.

Now May I play Devils Advocate for one second... Forget all the other mistakes you made... Were you randomly selected or is there any chance the Chica set you up knowing you would be walkng, meeting her at an appointed time etc... Just a thought..

Again glad your ok..

_________________
The Boss of All Bosses!!! Hey I'm a drunk alcoholics go to meetings!

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Zebra

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 9:46 am

PHD From Del Rey University!

Joined: Tue May 17, 2005 4:25 pm
Posts: 2917

Captain,

Glad you're OK. These recent reports have really got me worried. I've made that same walking trip that you made 100's of times with no problems, both day and night. Please tell us EXACTLY where this took place and also what time it took place.

Zebra

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PacoLoco

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 10:17 am

PHD From Del Rey University!

Joined: Thu Oct 02, 2003 11:23 pm
Posts: 10212
Location: Esportsmen's Lodge

And the CRIME WAVE continues, just think of all the non-CRT guys that get robbed we never hear about. Thanks for the report CaptainCruise. I fear it's only a matter of time before someone gets seriously hurt by these bastards. :evil:

Sad to say that's probably what it'll take for the policia to do something about it.

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CaptainCruise

Post subject: Follow Up/After Action - reinforcement

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 10:51 am

Just Learning The Gulch!

Joined: Mon Jun 14, 2004 12:59 am
Posts: 38
Location: Atlanta

1) I did not want to sound macho, but I've had significant training in personal defense. The way they handled me left me zero opportunity to be James Bond/Tom Cruise and overcome obstacles. The one with the revolver stayed about 3 meters away and the other cleaned my pockets from behind with one hand. The entire frisk took him less than 20 seconds (but it seemed like hours). Immediately afterwards as they ran away I started shouting for help and robbery, but no one appeared. I followed them for 2 blocks and kept a visual, but then lost them after two turns. Just a few minutes later the two young troopers on motor scooters passed by and I snagged them.

2) Two days ago I read about 8 robberies in (quiet/little) Charleston, SC and several murders in Atlanta... I feel more lucky than unlucky.

3) NO, I am in no way disuaded from being in CR. I love the place and (almost) every person I've met here in 20 trips (2 months this time) has been kind, gentle, ... generally nice. This situation could have happened anywhere. I just did something stupid... When I woke up this morning I realized I should have only take one card with me... and less cash.

4) RE: being set up. I have thought about that. I could have taken several paths to ZB, but selected the short one on the back streets. I usually take a taxi. She did not know my routine or plans on how to get there. I am relatively sure this was random.

5) RE: Taxis... second point... When leaving El Pres, if you use the taxis right by the hotel, you will notice the seldom use the meter. If that is the case you will almost always pay more... Either insist they use the meter when you select the taxi or exit the hotel and walk to the right as if you are going to DelRay. There is always at least one at the end waiting... and they always use the meter. The average fare from El Pres to ZB is 550 colones... That's a buck and ten cents... with a meter...

6) The police said that ICE(CR phone monopoly) could track my stolen cell phone ( I guess ... with triangulation.)

7) RE: The bad guys knowing our routine... I am almost positive this is correct. The way they split, both crossed the street at the same time, one fore and one aft tells me they had this rehearsed. Second, I was by myself...

I was on the last street prior to and walking down hill to ZB.

I've been a member for a couple years and although I usually avoid frivoulos posts this situation warranted a little time so others might benefit from my mistake. The only problem I have with this system is that there is so much "chatter" it is difficult to locate real information, and the Search option gets you close, but does not take you to the post with the words.

I've read "TAKE A TAXI" in a dozen posts and always felt that I could take care of myself in most situations... sort of blew off the warnings... OK... now I am the 13th post...

USE TAXIs (with the meter on)
DON'T take more cash than you need.
KEEP spare cards, cash and passport in your safe.
DO keep copies of all emergency numbers in both your wallet and your safe.
SPEED in reacting is important. This morning I checked with the card companies and ALL cards were used last night in SJO. I got the details of vendor names and locations from 2 of the card companies and have reported all locations to the police...

Pura Vida, CaptainCruise

_________________
One more day. two more beers.. three more times... :-)

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Right Hand Man

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 11:27 am

Masters Degree in Mongering!

Joined: Fri Jun 17, 2005 3:31 pm
Posts: 749
Location: Florida

Cap'n Cruise,

Thank you for the informative post and the safety information. It's good posts like these that remind us of the value of the buddy system. I am glad you suffered no serious injury.

Quote:

I've been a member for a couple years and although I usually avoid frivoulos posts this situation warranted a little time so others might benefit from my mistake. The only problem I have with this system is that there is so much "chatter" it is difficult to locate real information, and the Search option gets you close, but does not take you to the post with the words.

Sorry you're such a serious guy. :lol:

C'mon the info isn't hard to find here. Most people are too lazy to research and read.

I think that the frivolity of the regular posters makes the CRT board more of a community. Other monger boards to which I belong have more pissing matches, more flames wars, and I think a lot less friendships than CRT.

Even the difficult members seem to come 'round over time versus banishment.

Without the frivolity there exists no comraderie. Without comraderie you miss the great introspective threads and honesty from the members. I believe the jesting creates more participation and thus greater info and insight.

Carry on jokers...

RHM

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Dapanz1

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 12:13 pm

PHD From Del Rey University!

Joined: Thu Jan 29, 2004 12:00 am
Posts: 2525
Location: I don't know where I'm going, but I sure know where I've been.

Quote:

Posted: Mon Jul 19, 2004 8:54 pm Post subject: Tranny

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bilko,
Trannys are a big problem in that area. They work in groups and don't seem to be intimidated by anyone. I remember talking to the new owner of Nashville. He is a former cop and a huge specimen of a man. He says the trannys are all the time ph*ckin' with him.

On my first trip 10 years ago I got robbed by a group of 4 trannys. I was stupid. Walking in the wrong neighborhood after dark and under the influence of a few Imperials. Here was the the scheme then: It was Calle 6 or 8, can't remember and near Ave 7. Those of you who know San Jose...I know what you are thinking. Dapanz..you are a dumbass. Yes, it is true. But, it was my first trip and I'm young, dumb and full of C*m. Looking for excitement. I found it alright. Well, the street is not at all lit up except the dim lights that shines from within the Tico bars on the block. A car pulls past me about a half block. Out the door of the car comes this totally beautiful "woman." Steps on to the sidewalk and proceeds to walk toward me. YES!! My eyes and attention are fully focused on catching up to her for a little conversation. Well, this was the distraction technique. The next thing I know I have two hands around my left arm, two hands around my right arm and two more hands around my neck. I put up a decent fight but ultimately lost. The next thing I know is that I'm doing "snow angels" in the middle of the street. Knocked out COLD. I come to and I see several people staring down at me. Yapping at me in Spanish. At that time I have NO idea what they are saying. But, given their kindness, I assume they wanted to know if I were alright. It was a very surreal moment. It was like a complete nightmare and I couldn't believe it had happened. I look around and pick up my loose change and my hotel room key. I stayed at the Irazu that trip. I walk to the corner and their just "happened to be"..haha 2 cops. I told them what had happened and I begged and I mean BEGGED them to help me find my eyeglasses. Bastards ripped em right off my face. Well, funny enough my glasses were recovered. A bit battered and bruised but found none the less. At least I could see!!! Of course my money(no, I'm not going to tell you how much money I had on me. Because if you thought I was stupid up until now, you would know it for sure then), credit cards, drivers license etc..was gone. But, my passport remained. INCREDIBLE. Well, I wander into a few Tico bars with the cops. They are (haha) investigating. All the bartenders are offering me free shots of tequila, beers whatever I wanted. They know what just went down. Money never recovered, of course. I'm sure it was split up amongst the perpetrators. I truly believe the 2 cops were amongst them. Well, enough "investigating." I got my glasses back and could atleast see. I just wanted to get back to the room. A very friendly taxi driver offered me a ride. For the low, low cost of 5K colones. For those who don't know, this is maybe a 2K ride. Well,I reported the mugging to the management at the hotel. Mostly because I needed to get the credit cards cancelled immediately. They were sympathetic and sorry for what had happened. They told me how LUCKY I was they didn't kill me or strip my clothes and shoes. Everything and I mean EVERYTHING is for sale in the black markets. Nike shoes and Tommy Jeans are hot sellers. Traumatic, truly traumatic. My only advice don't walk alone at night. Particularly in off beat areas. Never wear jewelry or take anymore money than you need for the party at hand. Beware the killer Trannys. Now that I have relived that nightmare, time for bed.

dapanz1
_________________
I need a lover who won't drive me crazy, some girl who'll thrill me and then go away.---John Cougar Mellencamp.

This post is almost 2 years old but, I like to bring it to life once in awhile to remind the newbies. Even though the incident took place over 10 years ago, I haven't forgotten. Forget about the cops trying to help. They are probably part of the robbery.
Next day, I grab a cab and try to make a real report with the police. Cabbie gave me the grand tour of San Jose before taking me to a police station. God only knows where this place was located. Anyway, it was just a local station. At that time I didn't speak Spanish. I got NO WHERE with them. Then I got a cab to a very large police station. The only Gringo in the place. I got to view (from the outside) what a Tico jail cell looks like. It's everything you have ever heard and probably worse. Anyway, I hung out for an hour with no service. Gave up the ghost and went back to the room trying to figure out how I was going to survive the next few days with almost no money and no CC's. on me.
Trying to get a cab outside this place took almost 45 minutes. I talked to an armed guard (probably 16 years old) and asked if it was safe to walk downtown. He laughed and said, "No senor, no es seguro."
Glad you are ok, man. I know it sucks.

_________________
Paradise= Sitting outside the Bodega in Panama City about 1 am. Drinking cool Balboas with cool friends and blazin' hot Colombianas. I want to be there..RIGHT NOW!

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Osgood

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 12:31 pm

PHD From Del Rey University!

Joined: Tue Nov 04, 2003 1:59 pm
Posts: 1136
Location: fort lauderdale

That is the area,where you suddenly turn the corner and across the street is the reggae shop,don't forget after dark a few addicts/homeless sleep in the doorway's on the top of the hill as you walk down to zona blue....keep on cruising, and thank's for your warning....

_________________
Jaco is called little USA by all ticos

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Witling

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 12:48 pm

PHD From Del Rey University!

Joined: Sun Oct 12, 2003 4:50 pm
Posts: 3822

CaptainCruise,
I'm sorry for your misfortune and thank you for sharing your story.

I don't want to chastise you but if you had spent a few minutes on CRT in the last couple weeks you would have seen a number of posts regarding this very subject.

Excuse me for repeating this AGAIN and AGAIN but here it is:

You can't control your environment but you can control what you make available to be stolen. DON'T CARRY ANYTHING YOU DON'T WANT TO LOSE!

In this case that would have included at the very least credit cards and a driver's license. At that time of night I can't think of any reason to be carrying any of those items.

And if you had a backup ATM card why did you need to use WU to wire money to yourself?

For the last time (hopefully) DON'T CARRY ANYTHING YOU DON'T WANT TO LOSE!

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Zebra

Post subject:

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 12:57 pm

PHD From Del Rey University!

Joined: Tue May 17, 2005 4:25 pm
Posts: 2917

The culprits, most likely, were not the homeless or the addicts sleeping in the doorways [though, of course, you need to keep your guard up around them too]. That Glock must have cost what the average Tico earns in 4 months......but then again, the Glock was prabably stolen too.

Dapanz1......that was an interesting old post. I always was of the belief that the police had little concern for anything that happens to us, unless, of course.......it was something they could nail US for.

Zebra

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CaptainCruise

Post subject: Finialmente

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 1:10 pm

Just Learning The Gulch!

Joined: Mon Jun 14, 2004 12:59 am
Posts: 38
Location: Atlanta

THX, Witling,

1) re: ATM card... forgot to say I did not have a lot of money in that account... I used a different system to get money via West Union and have transferred funds to the ATM, but I deal primarily with a small bank and the $ in that account will not be available until Monday (tomorrow).

2) I used to spend 2-3 hours/week on this site, but it has become so cluttered that I can not usually find the info I want... perhaps I need a tutorial on how to use the site. I am sure you are right about the info on "robbery" or "safety", but if you do a search for a word, you are given the general post area and not the specific paragraph that has the info you are looking for. With all the "hey how are you" (should be PMs, not posts) messages, I have used the site less and less.

3) You are absolutely right about my mistakes... mea culpa. My reason for "bareing my soul" was to add value to what has been said before, but with enough detail that any Newbie can see it is real.

Safe times in CR, ... still cruising...

_________________
One more day. two more beers.. three more times... :-)

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