How To Stay Safe While Okirika (Thrift) Shopping In Cameroonian Markets
Cameroonian markets can be so crowded at times. The major markets in Cameroon can get so crowded that thrifting or Okrika shopping can become risky.
These crowds can be full of all types of people and pickpockets are no exception. It is necessary to protect your property and make your experience in the market safe. One can never be too careful.
So here are some tips to keep you safe while buying Okrika in a Cameroonian market.
.png "So here are some tips to keep you safe while buying Okrika in a Cameroonian market.")
- Don't put all your money in one place.
Separate the money especially if it is a huge amount so that you don't lose it all in the case of theft.
- Never put your wallet, purse or money at the back of your pocket.
If you do put it in the side pocket, make sure your hand never leaves your side in crowded places.
- Hold your bags and purses close to your body.
Let the end of the zip of your bag be at your front and not behind to prevent your bag from being opened without your knowledge.
- Always take out or separate your transport fare 'to and fro' from your shopping money to avoid using up all the money and trekking home.
Trust me, you don't want to run into a shortage of money and become stranded in the market.
- When boarding taxis go for ones with a valid car number or work badge (or any other public document they should normally possess and make visible).
Observe and take note of such details to help avoid being robbed or possibly help you to recover your stolen property in case of robbery. Car number plates are orange in colour in Cameroon and taxis are yellow though there are other taxi services like Grey Cab which have grey taxis.
- Pickpockets may use tricks like pushing, rubbing themselves on you and try to act like they are in a hurry and need to go ahead.
If you notice such movements around you, stop for a while, check and hold on to your valuables well.
- Watch out for distractions and walk away from them.
It may be a trick to steal from you.
- Another trick is to hold a handbag but put your money elsewhere.
This may divert the attention of pickpockets who may go for searching your bag instead. My friend and I were fond of doing this especially in very crowded markets like Mokolo market in Yaoundé. A pickpocket was spotted by a taxi driver trying to search the bag and called our attention. We were more relaxed because the bag had no money. It served as a distraction.
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