The city of Venice, known for its beautiful canals, iconic gondola rides, and rich history, is also famous for a terrible problem—pickpocketing. Despite efforts by local authorities, tourists, and residents to combat theft, a woman has decided to take the act of actively protecting visitors against these thieves. Monica Poli, a 58-year-old volunteer, has turned out to be one popular figure in Venice in helping raise awareness about pickpockets in the area.
Monica Poli’s Patrolling Mission
For years, Poli has patrolled the streets near Venice’s Rialto Bridge, a bustling area popular with tourists. Armed with her trademark phrase, “Attenzione, pickpocket!” shouted in Italian, English, and Spanish, Poli has successfully alerted the public about potential thieves. Her quick actions recently led her to spot three suspected pickpockets within just two blocks of starting her patrol.
Her efforts have gained significant recognition, both locally and internationally. Many tourists have praised her dedication, with one French visitor expressing their gratitude: “I thank her for the work she does and the help she gives tourists. These pickpockets are a real problem.”
Social Media Fame and Growing Impact
Poli’s vigilance and quick thinking earned her a massive following on social media. In 2023, she filmed and posted a video of her patrol; within hours, it has reached thousands of views and likes on TikTok and other platforms. Her famous slogan is now “attenzione pickpocket, attenzione borseggiatori” and is used on protest videos and even aspart of songs remixed for the cause. She reported an increase in volunteers of more than 50 members to join Cittadini Non Distratti or “Undistracted Citizens.“.
The Surge in Pickpocketing and Challenges in Prosecution
Pickpocketing in Venice has been on the rise since 2021, with 2023 experiencing the highest number of thefts in a decade, particularly on public transportation. According to Italy‘s Interior Ministry, a report showed that train thefts in Venice increased by a shocking 38.8%. Mostof the victims of these crimes were foreign visitors who comprised nearly 94% of metro theft victims.
One of the reasons for the recent surge in thefts is a 2022 law that makes it mandatory for victims to file formal reports for prosecution of pickpocketing cases. However, if the victim does not attend the trial, the charges are dismissed. This law has made it easier for the criminals to get away with it since most tourists are not likely to return for the subsequent court proceedings.
Poli has complained that with this reform, tourists may be put at risk since they may not have the time and resources to return to Venice for their court date. She also argues that the new law has made the city‘s visitors more vulnerable to crime.
A Lifelong Dedication to Fighting Theft
Poli fights pickpocketing for deeply personal reasons. She has been actively involved since the 1990s, when she worked in a clothing shop that attracted Japanese tourists, who became easy targets for thieves. It was here that she witnessed the upsurge of pickpocketing and decided to take action against it. Today, much of her time is spent patrolling Venice‘s streets and teaching tourists how to avoid theft.
Despite the physical threats and attacks she faces while on patrol, Monica Poli continues doing her job. She claims her work is inspired by a sense of civic pride and deep commitment to protecting Venice‘s visitors.
Monica Poli has become a figure of love in Venice for fighting pickpocketing. Now that thefts are on the rise and the legal system is creating obstacles, her fight is more important than ever. As she continues patrolling, her mission reminds the community that community efforts will protect locals and tourists alike from crime.
