The Cuban-American journalist Javier Díaz reported on social media that his mother was the victim of a robbery in Barcelona, a city that has become one of the main hotspots for pickpockets in Spain in recent years.
Díaz explained that his mother, who has been living in the European country for almost four years, lost her mobile phone and personal identification after being assaulted this Sunday.
"Spain is a wonderful country, but these thefts tarnish the image of major cities," commented the reporter, who expressed gratitude for the warm reception his family has received in the Iberian country, but warned his followers about the need to take extra precautions in streets, subways, and buses, especially in tourist areas.
According to data cited by Díaz, around 155 mobile phone thefts are reported daily in Catalonia, the majority of which occur in Barcelona, where pickpockets operate skillfully and often manage to evade surveillance cameras.
The journalist expressed sadness over the difficult moment his mother experienced, although he noted that she downplayed the incident by stating that “there are more important things in life.”
Another Cuban journalist was a victim of theft in Madrid
This is not an isolated case. A couple of years ago, the Cuban journalist Mario J. Pentón also reported having been a victim of theft in Madrid, while enjoying a vacation in the Spanish capital.
Pentón recounted on Facebook that a man with an Arab appearance approached him on the street under the pretense of talking about "soccer," kicked his legs, and within seconds snatched the mobile phone he had in his pocket.
The testimonies of both communicators reflect a growing problem in the major Spanish cities, where pickpockets have become a nightmare for both residents and tourists.
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