Dozens of Oranje fans robbed in Brazil

Last night dozens of Dutch people were robbed in Salvador whilst watching the opening game between Brazil and Croatia on a field which was set-up as a special fan zone. During the game, the touristic centre of the city was packed. This situation was ideal for pick-pockets as wallets, cellphones and camera's were stolen from the fans. The Dutch football fanatics reported the thefts to the Dutch police team in Salvador. The thieves were believed to have reached into the pockets of the victims, and silently snatched the valuables from them. It was said by to the head of the team, Will van Kollenburg. One of the victims was a NOS-cameraman, his phone was stolen. "I was surrounded by 20 people who snatched my necklace from my neck. After that they acted as if nothing happened. But what can we do? There are so many of them. You know the chance of this happening exists, luckily I still have my wedding ring", said a man who's golden necklace was stolen. The Dutch police are not allowed to take action themselves. They are to immediately inform their Brazilian colleagues. "The main commander of the military police is along side with us. Immediately more police was ordered to come to the crime scene. Furthermore, we sheltered all fellow Dutchman, amongst which a 94 year old man." Explains van Kollenburg. "The atmosphere was jovial earlier that day. But during the game itself there were so many people, there was barely any space to breathe. People would take their hands out of their pockets for one second and before they knew it pick-pockets had taken their belongings", according to NOS-reporter Marcia Ottevanger The Dutch police agents commented that the robberies in Salvador are way more elaborate then during any other Wold Cups or European Cups. Van Kollenburg advises all fans planning to watch the Dutch game today in Salvador to leave their belongings at home. "Do not let this spoil your day", he adds.