I almost got shot! be careful out there!

Lisa Zee says on May 2, 2007, 19:05:

oh man! I am so sorry that happed to you. Thank you for sharing.
We have to be so careful, "I" would never in a million years would have done that, walking with my lap top and getting all that money at once, no way, I am Colombian and when I visit, I am very, very careful, so much that I don`t like to talk in English. My b/f was very angry, still is because I would not let him speak English in the taxis or walking on the streets.

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vicshere says on May 2, 2007, 19:24:

papaya you give too much papaya man.....walking on the street with 4 mill and a laptop dumb man dumb.....you been a member of this site for a while now...don't tell me you haven't read warning about this kind of robberies before....if your looking for pity from me....don't bother

listo

listo

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Robert Jorge says on May 2, 2007, 19:41:

Dude, that sucks. I am sorry you had that experience. I don't know why Vicshere has to be so harsh. You did give papaya, but look at it as a $3000 lesson that you fortunately walked away from.

BEWARE of gold diggers.

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scotty says on May 2, 2007, 20:02:

what! you go to the bank, you carry your money in a bag, you walk on the street with that bag, you were considering charging at a guy rugby style that was pointing a gun at you?
you did everything wrong, you are lucky to even be alive.

Get Rhythm, when you got the blues. Johnny Cash

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caslug says on May 2, 2007, 20:21:

while.. i think.. you did couple of mistakes.. BUT.. THANK YOU for posting your story! Some other insecure people, are afraid to tell stuff that is bad.. but at least you had the balls.. to post here.. sometimes, people need to hear/read these types of stories so they STAY ALERT.. sometimes, when you live there long enough you let your guard down for a second.. stories like yours.. gets people to remember.. not to do that

i think you mention that you didnt feel right.. you should have listen to your instinct.. always listen to your instinct.. if you did.. you may have return the money.. took a cab..but sometimes we override our instinct.. because it's "incovenient" to override it..
we forget.. and shit happens after that..

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RUV says on May 2, 2007, 20:26:

Sorry, at least you can walk away from it.

Robert the dollar exchange rate sucks, it is closer to a 2,000 dollar lesson. Vic what makes you think he was looking for your pity?

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dibbs says on May 2, 2007, 20:39:

Thanks guys! I'm still shaken up eventhough it was 8 hours ago, anyways, to be honest, i was not carrying a laptop in a laptop bag, i did not look, like a tourist, nor a business man, vicshere if you saw me on the street in Colombia, you will think of me just another black Colombian i try not stand out,i looked like an ordinary man walking down the street,the guys who came after me knew exactly what they wanted, but i guess i gave papaya walking down the street even though it was only a block away from my hotel

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caslug says on May 2, 2007, 20:48:

i think.. if you notice the other teller.. coming over and talking.. then walking out.. and had a bad feeling.. you should have a) return the money or b) ask the bank manager to have security escort you to the hotel or at least to the taxi..

but walking out w/ that much cash.. AFTER you suspect something is NOT right.. was not a good idea..

isn't great to be monday morning quarterbacking! hehe

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miamimike says on May 2, 2007, 20:54:

Inside Job by that second teller,,,Sorry To hear of your Bad Luck; at least you are still alive! Most important! Wish I had a Dime for everytime I've heard that story for the last 10-13 years or so,,,You sure weren't the first and damn sure won't be the last. Its also happened to people who took "ALL" the precautions yet they still were a Victim. As many times as warnings are posted here as well as on other travel Web Sites, travelers many times pay no heed. In this below link, Escape Artist.com warns against frequenting Tourist zones packed with other tourists(such as Zona Rosa in Bogota for example) or cheap sleazy nightclubs, Exotic dance bars ect yet how many pay heed to the warnings??? Many American Tourists continue to frequent that area; Thieves go where the Tourists are and the pickings are Easy,,,In Mexico tourists continue to visit those border towns and have the same crap pulled on them, only its worse these days! Can't say they haven't been warned! Caveat Emptor,,,

http://www.escapeartist.com/Travel_Mag/Issues/04/Dangerous_Places.html

"Wait a minute. What did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gas? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that." -- Feb. 28, 2008 --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C.

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dibbs says on May 2, 2007, 20:54:

caslug, after living here for years, you forget that it's a dangerous country, i know i should have thought about all that, but right now there's no point thinking of what i should have done, but just try to be positive and careful. it has not hit me yet (i'm still in shock) that i'm actually alive, my wife was crying like hell, telling me stories of all the people who lost their lives in similar fashion, i think God loves me very much!

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Wastelandlive says on May 2, 2007, 21:36:

Thanks for the story. I'm glad you didn't get hurt.

You don't tell us for what you needed $4M pesos in cash.

And obviously this is hindsight, but for what it's worth, I never walked around with that sum either. I paid every big bill I had (rent, slip, tuition) by bank transfer... something Colombians seem very much used to. So I'd go to a bank, and use my credit card to deposit money in the providers account...

That could be time consuming. But my rule of thumb was anything over $200.00 (USD) was worth the effort. It's not that somebody won't put a gun to your head for $200.00, that was just the level of pain I thought I could absorb without growing bitter.

I'm sorry to hear that you lost your laptop. That's probably the worst part, no?

Wasteland

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elreydelostrolls says on May 2, 2007, 21:46:

Are you sure this really happened to you or are you just making it up because you're anti-Colombian? If you've read PBH you should know that NOTHING like this ever happens in Colombia. It's the safest place in the world. In fact most people who go there comment on how friendly and helpful everyone is and how much safer they feel than they do back in their own hometowns where there is so much crime. Now come on and admit it, this didn't really happen.

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goin_south says on May 2, 2007, 21:55:

RUV, I think Robert Jorge was including another $1000 or $1200 for the laptop. So, it figures out, about right, just as he did it.

Where do we go from here?

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miamimike says on May 2, 2007, 21:58:

Utopia-Welcome Back Home,,, I like the new name "ElReyDeLosTrolls" Very Nice,,,LOL

"Wait a minute. What did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gas? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that." -- Feb. 28, 2008 --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C.

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elreydelostrolls says on May 2, 2007, 22:18:

Could lead to a whole new line, ElReyDeLasIdiotas, ElReyDeLosMongolicos, ElReyDeLosPendejos.... Whatever the name, the same insolent stupidity that is a hallmark of PBH.

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Robert Jorge says on May 2, 2007, 23:18:

RUV, congrats on being the dude that had to correct me. I am well aware of the exchange rate. I figured the loss of the laptop was worth $1000 - $1500 though. I was actually being conservative in my loss guesstamation.

BEWARE of gold diggers.

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Robert Jorge says on May 2, 2007, 23:54:

I don't think it is too cool to kick a guy when he's down. A friend of ours just got robbed at gunpoint, had the guts to tell us about it so people might be wiser for it, and there are people giving him a hard time. It is easy to see the mistakes after the fact, but I think it is an invaluable lesson to those that are not so "street smart" as to what to watch out for. Maybe suggestions on what people can do to minimize their risk would be good. For example: though I speak pretty good Spanish, I keep my trap shut in taxis and let my wife do the talking. I keep very little cash on my person, and walk with a wallet that is disposable. It has 40 or 60 mil COP and an expired credit card - nothing else. Enough to satisfy (hopefully) a robber, but nothing that would be life changing if stolen. I never have any hard to replace documents.

I hope the police are even half-way smart enough to go after that bank teller. It is obvious he was setting you up. He should be suspect numero uno. I would be having a talk with the bank manager about your situation tomorrow. Anyway, hang in there, good luck, and keep plugging away.

BEWARE of gold diggers.

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webmanco says on May 2, 2007, 23:55:

Dibbs I am sorry to hear what happened to you, just for the record once while on line in a bank the police were telling people to colaborate and not give papaya.

The officer even said that if you were going to carry a big amount of money you could call them and be escorted. Some people don´t even trust the Police so take the chances.

What will be good is to name the bank and give the address so people will know the bad press of the place.

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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Cerealkiller says on May 3, 2007, 01:39:

Dibbs I am very sorry to hear that. It sucks... I wont say you fucked up or u were in for it by carrying all your stuff on you. I have done it myself, and gotten mugged.
You always end up with that feeling of impotence, and its usually tiny stupid looking men...Hell, I have considered the posibility of kicking their asses myself, and im a tiny girl! But well at least is just one of those things you can mend with money overtime...it could have been a lot worse.
I reeeeally hope you still find Colombia a nice place to live in, dont let it make you bitter. Shit happens...simple as that.

Conservatives are not necessarily stupid, but most stupid people are conservatives -John Stuart Mill

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kalder says on May 3, 2007, 02:25:

I'm deeply sorry for your troubles. You must be feeling very, very shaken. Somebody stuck a gun in my face twenty years ago and I still remember it as if it were yesterday.

Some posters are being pointlessly critical of you. Perhaps you made a mistake...and that's all. We're humans, so we tend to do that kind of thing a lot.

I hope to God they hang out to dry the person who set you up. Please keep us posted on how the 'investigation' goes.

"kalder- have you ever had a woman?"--Sam Salmon

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lasvegasguy says on May 3, 2007, 03:15:

scary when i go to colombia....NO CASH..

Travelers..checks...and since only the better places accept them...that is no probelm with me. Never do I get cash.
oh and if you ride a bus there....always keep real stuff in your shoe. PUt a fake wallet wit hcrap in in anywehre else that is accessible.

one thing though...colombia has the SMARTEST pick pockets i have ever seen!!!!

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Wastelandlive says on May 3, 2007, 04:38:

Two things: Dibbs:

Don't expect much from the cops. While there are honorable Colombian police, odds are against you coming across one at this juncture.

I once recovered some stolen property in Colombia once but the circumstances were very different.

You lost cash and a VERY movable item... even if the cops locate the thieves - and said thieves happen to have the money - the cops will just keep the money themselves.

It's just too easy and too tempting. And you're just another rich gringo who's been screwing Colombia for decades and doesn't really deserve all that cash.

That's going to go nowhere... UNLESS you offer a reward. I've seen that done. If you want to spend some money, and send a message, you can have both guys delivered to you in a body bag.

Amazing how resourceful the cops can be when provided with such motivation...

And I'd say you have slam dunk on who set you up. That could be dealt with many ways.
________________________

Robert - a caution for you. I have a dummy wallet too. I thought I was very clever for using one for some time... expired DL, a couple of expired cards. Definitely good stuff.

And then I asked myself what would happen if I got taken on an ATM tour at gunpoint, and I tried to explain that none of the cards in my wallet, none of the pins worked because they were all expired. I wonder how amusing my kidnappers would find that?

I've decided that the best thing is a laminated copy of my passport, a little bit of cash - split up in different pockets - and a cashcard that accesses an account with a low daily limit... mine is $400 a day.

I think that minimizes my risks.

Wasteland

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JMCana says on May 3, 2007, 05:11:

Bad for the Image Dibbs said: “after living here for years, you forget that it's a dangerous country,”

elreydelostrolls said, “If you've read PBH you should know that NOTHING like this ever happens in Colombia. It's the safest place in the world.”

Hmm – I have heard personal experience stories of dishonest bank tellers several times now in Colombia in talking with people. But so far I have never heard of one bank teller dismissed because of it even though it seemed very obvious.

Have I heard of a man being robbed coming out of a bank in the USA. Yes, I have, but just once in over 50 years living there and I was involved in the banking business. And at that time I doubt the teller was responsible as the man took out $10,000 in cash every Friday for over 2 years before it happened.

So, no one has addressed how bad it is for Colombia’s image that such a scam constantly exists in Colombia without steps being taken. That might partially explain why many reports state that only 28% of Colombians have a bank account.

Wastelandlive said, “Don't expect much from the cops. While there are honorable Colombian police, odds are against you coming across one at this juncture.”

This is another bad thing that cleaning up could help Colombia’s image as well as its future. I still remember Uribe’s speech to the Police academy in 2003 when he said,
“Everyone from peasants to city dwellers must be heard and their demands must be promptly answered in order for them to trust our efforts. The country’s soldiers and police must persuade the public about the goodness of their work. “

I knew one very honest police officer near where I live. His reward for his honesty was to be transferred to a town in guerilla territory and replaced by an officer who bluntly said, “I do not wish to complicate my life by enforcing any law that XXXX does not like.”

Dibbs – I join the others in saying that I am sorry for your loss, but hope the best somehow comes of it. It would be nice for those involved to learn that crime does not pay.

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miamimike says on May 3, 2007, 05:34:

JMCana-The "Mark" setup scam has been going on for Years in Colombia. I was marked back in 95 or 96. I went to a Bogota Bank one day in Santa Barbara to check interest rates on CDs and when I got up to leave from my chair and turned around, the Bank Manager informed me I had been "marked"--I took off my Black jacket and on the back was a white mark about a foot long by a few inches Wide! It was a white chalk like powder and the bank manager informed me I had been "dusted" as I walked up the Bank Stairs. Never felt a thing. I had no bags, jewelry or Outlandish dress(white tennis sneakers, pointy Cowboy boots ect) that would give the impression I had money other wise then I was a Gringo. The Bank Manager called me a Cab and he escorted me out the Side Employee's door when the Cab arrived and that was the end of it, nothing happened but could have had he not noticed the "Mark".He said what would have happened was that someone would have been waiting outside and would have robbed me and passed the Money(what little I had on me)to someone else and they all head a different direction to make it hard for the cops to follow. Old time heist scam that happens Daily in Bogota the Bank Manager informed me,,,

"Wait a minute. What did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gas? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that." -- Feb. 28, 2008 --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C.

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JMCana says on May 3, 2007, 06:00:

Well Miamimike - thanks for the info. But it just makes me wonder. If it has constantly been going on this long without a crackdown, then why? It is just a part of accepted Colombian society? Are there more important things to concern themselves about? Does it have something to do with accepted corruption?

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miamimike says on May 3, 2007, 06:10:

JMCana-I belive it is an accepted element of Col Society as are corrupt Police, Politicians, showing up late for appointments ect,,,Who knows when it will end,,,BTW, its pulled on Colombians as well as Americans, papaya given or not,,,

Esanch- Poster Elreydetrolls is Utopia in my opinion,,,LOL



Dibbs---TELL us what Bank this was Please,,,

"Wait a minute. What did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gas? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that." -- Feb. 28, 2008 --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C.

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seabass says on May 3, 2007, 06:26:

If this thread doesn't pull DG outta retirement nothing will!

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aztec says on May 3, 2007, 06:32:

The title here reminds me of... ..."Boo got shot." Have any of you heard the audio. The radio personality is Neal Boortz and the interpretator is M. Royal.

Before anyone accuses me of racism please note that the translator, Royal, is a Black American.

If interested download the audio here.

http://www.ebaumsworld.com/2006/07/boogotshot.html

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seabass says on May 3, 2007, 06:35:

I believe in the tip off theory.
Something similar happened to me in BQ. My gf was at work and she ordered me some food from the Olympica.
After the delivery driver left about 30 minutes later, some modefoque was trying to break in the house. Maybe I'm being paranoid but I believe the driver told his buddy there was a gringo in the house.

He didn't get in and it's a good thing cuz hell was waiting for him on the other side of the door.

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aztec says on May 3, 2007, 06:37:

The title here reminds me of... ..."Boo got shot." Have any of you heard the audio. The radio personality is Neal Boortz and the interpretation is by Mr. Royal Marshal.

Before anyone accuses me of racism please note that the translator, Royal, is a Black American.

If interested download the audio here.

http://www.ebaumsworld.com/2006/07/boogotshot.html

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arthur brode says on May 3, 2007, 06:45:

. The Colombian Police provides a FREE escort service for bank withdrawls of this amount.Recently,one of my clients made a large cash advance on his Mastercard to purchase an apartment that was for sale here in Cali.The bank manager would not let us leave the bank without calling for the police escorts.Once the two police officers arrived at the bank they proceeded to escort us to the real estate agency.

http://www.calirentals.net/

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elmodefoque says on May 3, 2007, 06:48:

Hey dibbs, don’t know how it feels to have a robber put a gun in my face, but I’m certain is not too nice, I’m truly sorry it happened to you.
Listen if you ever feel perturbed about picking up money or going someplace you’re not too comfortable in Barranquilla, contact me at malpariohp at yahoo.com and I’ll get you in contact with one of the biggest, nicest, honest, will take a bullet for your ass cab driver, my nephew. Soon he’ll be working for me, I’m gonna put one hell of a stereo system on that fokin cab with all types of American music.
Dust off and keep going we can’t live in a bubble, chit happens. The main thing is that we keep focus and continue after what brings us to this incredible sometimes daunting place, el amor de CHUCHA

ASK NOT WHAT THE PUSSY CAN DO FOR YOU, BUT WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR THAT PUSSY!!!!!!!!!! CAT LOVER

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dibbs says on May 3, 2007, 06:56:

Hey guys, mil gracias!, anyways this morning I'm in the manager's office with the police, i had expected the police to be useless but they were the most useful, they found an abandoned motorcycle yesterday talk about being fast!!, with the # plate i had given, but they have no further info As far as my computer goes they asked me to check in el centro in a week or two. The bank manager does not believe me, when i tell her one of her teller is implicated, i swear looking at the teller this morning i almost lost it! so i will leave it to the cops to take care of it, because I'm leaving for Bogotá this morning i doubt any thing further will come of it. The thing is i know they will not recover the money nor the laptop, but at least get rid of that guy, who knows how many more people are going to be victims, according to the police this kind of stuff is on the rise in BQ, most of these delinquents, used to be in la guerrilla, so now that they left they can't get as much money as they used to, hence this!

Guys there's a Spanish proverb which says " a life lived in fear is a life half lived" for those planning to go to Colombia for the first time don't think as soon as you land this will happen, all you have to do is be careful and like many people posted here before don't give papayas!
You will hear people say " these kind of events only happen to gringos!!" don't listen to them, there's plenty of people on PBH, who have lived here for years and nothing happen,

Miamimike, the bank is AVVILLAS on carrera 56-84, next to barullo night club ( this street is full of bars and clubs) the teller is kind of a short guy, kind of gay looking (no offense to gays)

Cerealkiller, don't worry this will not change how i feel about Colombia, it will make me more careful, but this country has given me more than i can ask for, what was taken away will not dampen my spirit, I'm sad because my laptop had many projects on, but the rest of the stuff on the laptop i kept them on a portable hard drive in Bogotá. Actually I'm sad because i was not able to fight back! i would have loved to have beaten the s**t out of those guys!

wastelandlive don't worry nothing illegal, i was taking the money for my sister in law who is applying to study French in Montreal this summer, so she needed to show she had the money in her bank account.

Once again thanks for your emotional support or should i say internet support!

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dibbs says on May 3, 2007, 07:05:

elmo sorry off topic for a second you write "The main thing is that we keep focus and continue after what brings us to this incredible sometimes daunting place, el amor de CHUCHA"

Chucha es mal olor en las axilas.
chocho es vagina!

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elmodefoque says on May 3, 2007, 07:09:

hey, sometimes a chucha/chocho has kind of a funky smell

ASK NOT WHAT THE PUSSY CAN DO FOR YOU, BUT WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR THAT PUSSY!!!!!!!!!! CAT LOVER

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gringolondinense says on May 3, 2007, 07:12:

elmo.. what's a chucha?

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elmodefoque says on May 3, 2007, 07:24:

GL a CHUCHA is that thing about an inch and a half north of el jopo. I like to visit them both when i'm in that area
Please don't ask what a jopo is?

GIBB, 5 years ago my cousin was in the middle of constructing an apartment building in north Barranquilla. The laborers needed to get paid and more material. We took a cab to a bank en alto prado and 10 minutes later walked away with 50 millones de peso in cash stuffed in 2 bulging envelopes, in full view. We stopped, had a couple drinks then dropped me off at my hotel and he continued taking care of business.
This guy has strong paraco ties. What would happen to those involved if we were to get robbed? Their entire family will be tortured and then killed.
Another thing, if I look like a criminal my cousin looks even scarier. .

ASK NOT WHAT THE PUSSY CAN DO FOR YOU, BUT WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR THAT PUSSY!!!!!!!!!! CAT LOVER

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dibbs says on May 3, 2007, 07:31:

thanks elmo i don't want anything happening to the teller and the police coming after me, but i have really being thinking of cutting off his fingers, with a pair of scissors,well on second thought i guess they needed that money more than i did!
Elmo you watch movies of rich people or politicos getting eliminated, why don't we have a business with hit man for scumbags like these!

holy crap I'm late for my flight!

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vicshere says on May 3, 2007, 07:38:

hey dibbs if your parting with your money....I can really use some extra cash to....I can send you a paypal account...I really really need the money to pay for hemorrhoid operation


listo

listo

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gringolondinense says on May 3, 2007, 07:40:

ah!! elmo i think El Jopo is about half a mile north of Bogota am I right?? I think im getting the hang of all this chit!!

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Man Tequila says on May 3, 2007, 09:48:

Colombia is south of the equator. I have heard that in Sweden the jopo is an inch and a half north of the chuchu, which swirls in the other direction.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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aztec says on May 3, 2007, 09:58:

Colombia is south of the equator. Is that entirely true?

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JMCana says on May 3, 2007, 10:02:

Not all of it I live near Bogota. My GPS tells me that I am 6 degrees North of the equator.

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aztec says on May 3, 2007, 10:05:

Thought... ...so.

And that brings up another question. Can you get GPS maps(download) for Colombia and specifically Bogota? What GPS are you using in Bogota?

Thanks.

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toneloc24 says on May 3, 2007, 10:11:

South of the Equator??? 50% true. The equator runs through Ecuador, the southernmost part of Colombia, and Brasil.

I went to the equator right outside of Quito in Ecuador.

"Don't tase me, bro!!!!"

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Robert Jorge says on May 3, 2007, 10:56:

Dibbs, there are "businesses" that have guys who will take care of problems, like a lowlife teller for example. I would just cut my losses though, like it sounds you are doing. I think there is something to be said about Karma, and I am sure someday that teller will get what is coming to him. I wouldn't give him a very long life expectancy, judging by the way he does business.

BEWARE of gold diggers.

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thumper65 says on May 3, 2007, 11:11:

papaya? Sorry guys, american gringo new to this site because I have been thinking about coming to Colombia. May I inquire as to what the hell "giving papaya" means?

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vicshere says on May 3, 2007, 11:18:

papaya to give papaya
is to let your guard down some examples...by showing off...letting people know your business....leaving your door open....leaving things in full site in your car....leaving you windows open with valuables in site....wearing expensive jewelry in public...many many more examples

listo

listo

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thumper65 says on May 3, 2007, 11:23:

thanks I am thinking that Colombia may not be the best country for me to think about retiring to. No offense meant, but I was hoping to find a Latin country that doesn't mind gringos moving there. I have always loved latin women and the Latin culture. I just don't want to be pidgeonholed as a stupid gringo or mark, just because I happen to be mostly white.

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miamimike says on May 3, 2007, 11:29:

Thumper- Giving Papaya has two meanings,,, In Colombia it means giving someone a reason to pull something on you, a trick, robbery, scam ect. In Miami, with the Cubans,if a cuban woman was giving you some Papaya, she would be giving some Sex as Papaya is the street name for Vagina. I like the Miami translation better...LOL

"Wait a minute. What did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gas? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that." -- Feb. 28, 2008 --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C.

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Man Tequila says on May 3, 2007, 12:17:

You can tell where you are in Colombia using the declination of the jopo and a compass that points to give you magnetic north.

On the equator, chuchus are just a horizontal line.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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Man Tequila says on May 3, 2007, 12:28:

"Giving papaya" would seem to mean acting like a juicy target -- wearing fancy jewellery, carrying a big camera around your neck, having a fat wallet in your back pocket. Any tourist who has read anything about Colombia does not do these things.

In practice, though, Ï think "giving papaya" is a weak rationalization of criminal behaviour. Bike got stolen when it was locked up? Well, you were giving papaya -- by having a bike, by locking it up in public view. Someone slipped a mickey in your drink? You must have been giving papaya. Waiter shortchanged you a thousand pesos when you paid for your meal with a big bill? It's your fault since you should have paid with smaller bills. Colombians have seen too many victims of real tragedies to have much concern or compassion for the trivial ones. But in most countries paying for a $5 meal with a $10 bill in no way justifies theft. Carrying a laptop or going to a bank are simple things businessmen need to do. My sympathies to dibbs. He learned an expensive lesson, is a victim, was kind enough to tell us what happened, and did not necessarily give papaya just because he was robbed.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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kalder says on May 3, 2007, 12:31:

I've heard 'papaya' being used as slang for the vagina in Valle del Cauca.

"kalder- have you ever had a woman?"--Sam Salmon

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aztec says on May 3, 2007, 13:21:

thumper65, I am white... ...and very obviously a gringo. Married to a Colombian woman for over 17 years and made many trips to Colombia. I love the Country but accept it is not as safe as the United States and thus requires certain precautions.

Why don't you make a few trips and see of you like the place. Be forewarned, the country is addictive. You will find yourself returning over and over.

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scotty says on May 3, 2007, 13:32:

you'll be fine retiring in Colombia and most other latin countries. you'll be safer there than some neighborhoods in US. I know many gringos retired in SA and they love it.

Get Rhythm, when you got the blues. Johnny Cash

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elreydelostrolls says on May 3, 2007, 21:45:

Give us your real name and address in Colombia and then we'll tell what "giving papaya" means.

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Man Tequila says on May 3, 2007, 22:21:

The thing is, you don't have to leave your drink unattended to get slipped a mickey. You watch your drink all the time and nothing else?

I differentiate between giving papaya -- doing stupid things that call attention to yourself, and being reasonably prudent but doing everyday things and being unlucky. When I travel in Colombia I don't carry my credit and debit cards together or my money in one pocket. But if a guy pulls a gun on me and keeps it on me after I toss the contents of one pocket towards him, the robber might get all my money. In most countries, this crime would be blamed on the robber and not the victim.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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elreydelostrolls says on May 3, 2007, 22:28:

Thumper65, you'd be a lot better off in Costa Rica or Panama. Colombia is no place for gringos.

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nine inch nails says on May 3, 2007, 22:58:

that's exactly what I did to a taxi driver on Amador causeway Panama City last week when a 2nd passenger (beaut. young woman) with a very large hand bag got in the back seat behind me right after I got in. If the taxista didn't stop I was going to Efff his world with my weapons.

The more and more I travel central and south. amer. the more I want to get a permit to legally carry some serious heat.

Trust very few. Sucks that a bank worker did this. Can the victim please tell us the name of the bank or if at least it was a large bank? I'm so very glad the victim is OK and glad we can share this info. to make us all smarter.

Going to sleep tonight again with my weapons by my side. The is my weapon this is my gun. This one's for killing, this one's for fun. But they won't know which one until it hits em!!!!!!!

I wanna get in a serious firefight and take a bunch of em out!!!!!!!!!


Dear God, hope you got the letter, and...
I pray you can make it better down here.
I don't mean a big reduction in the price of beer
but all the people that you made in your image,
see them starving on their feet
'cause they don't get enough to eat from God"

"They know nothing, they know nothing." J. Cramer

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nine inch nails says on May 3, 2007, 23:05:

Great suggestions I really like them. Gives thieves something without bruising their egos and potentially ending a good life.

"They know nothing, they know nothing." J. Cramer

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nine inch nails says on May 3, 2007, 23:20:

CR and Panama dangerous also No offense but just about got rolled by a taxi driver and his accomplice in PTY last week (Amador causeway) and had a creepy internet date last Dec. where was about to get rolled. They all are dangerous countries but all good countries also. In comparison to one another is tough.

Liked a lot of things in Panama despite.

"They know nothing, they know nothing." J. Cramer

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Man Tequila says on May 4, 2007, 10:24:

I spent my working day looking at people who have cut their fingers, fell down the stairs, had their toddler swallowed some paint thinner.

Accidents happen. Life ain't perfect. Telling these folks "you deserved what you got, chump" doesn't help them. I stub my toes too from time to time.

In a place like Colombia, you need to take precautions since you are already perceived as a rich target. You take them, and you hope for the best.

You could avoid talking to people, never order a drink at a bar, keep awake at night with your pistol trained on the door of the hotel room you never leave. Or accept that there are some small risks and have a good time. Not all small risks are easy to avoid, though. You think it would be tough for a bartender to slip a mickey in your bottle of beer, before you get it? In the time it took some pretty girl to kiss you her accomplice might have spiked your drink, even if you think you have X-ray vision. But there are known knowns yada yada and life is largely a matter of statistics. Enjoy it wisely.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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RJQuilla says on May 4, 2007, 10:54:

So if I missed it what was the reason for such a large withdrawal from the bank?

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juancegomez says on May 4, 2007, 15:29:

A comment I'd like to state that I'm thankful that the robbery did not end in death or injury.

I won't say that it's only your fault, though it's possible that your own actions may have contributed to it. But that's not the point.

Human beings are not perfect and they should not be expected to be. There's always a chance that something will go wrong, even if you take all the necessary precautions. That risk may tend to be higher in Colombia than in the First World, certainly, but it's still something that depends a lot on your own luck, not just on what you do or don't do.

I hope that next time you will be luckier, which is, frankly, beyond anyone's control. All you can do is try to improve the odds as much as possible, nothing else.

Finally, I believe that arthur brode has mentioned an important option that you and others might want to use next time: if you're withdrawing large amounts of cash (4 million pesos might not be that much in dollars, but it's a lot here), you might want to ask for a free police escort. That is not the "magical solution" to the problem, but simply another available measure that can help you. Nothing more, nothing less. Don't expect miracles out of it.

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Miguel says on May 4, 2007, 16:12:

dibbs Take elmo's advice and contact his nephew and your security will improve instantly. I am sorry for what happened to you. I can relate. The worst thing that has happened to me took place on the exact same block where you were robbed; that one block from Hotel American Golf and the bank; yet the crime took place in my hotel room while I was going to the bank.

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lpdiver says on May 4, 2007, 17:17:

I have yet To find a place other than SOME banks that will accept travelers cheques in Colombia. And then you need a Colombian citizen with their cedula and at least an hour to get your money. I carry some but only as a last resort for dire emergencies.

t

"cook some rice!"

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dibbs says on May 4, 2007, 17:20:

Can you believe this, i just got a call from Barranquilla, The surveillance video was inconclusive, no evidence that the teller had a cell phone, this is bull crap! the only person who knew i was taking 4 million was the teller, and the teller next to her, how will the robbers know exactly that i had 4 million, if they did not get a tip, these guys appeared from an opposite direction, because la calle 84 is a one way street...anyways that's life i guess!

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johnarizona says on May 4, 2007, 17:27:

Take a photo of teller, then another day take a photo of them getting into their bus or car...their home, their family? Sweat em.

When opportunity presents itself, throw their child in front of bus or train. Make them earn their money. Either that or just write it off and be more careful. Tough luck, good post.

"Dangle a little papaya and then cut their hand off when they reach for it." Pasty.

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elreydelostrolls says on May 4, 2007, 19:13:

"So if I missed it what was the reason for such a large withdrawal from the bank?" He was planning on partying all weekend with a boatload of hookers.

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Man Tequila says on May 5, 2007, 10:36:

But a lot of the people who are victims of the escopolamina scams are Colombian, probably far more so than tourists. You saying they don't have street smarts after growing up there?

They may open the cap or seal but trust me, you do not examine the seal with a microscope. Putting on a cap or seal is as easy as pie. Sometimes your number just comes up.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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podborski says on May 5, 2007, 13:23:

if I was looking to retire somewhere 'safe and easy' I'd first look at Chile (almost like North America, prices too, unfortunately), then Uruguay.

Uruguay is a bit more expensive than Colombia, but not much. The women are not nearly as attractive, in my limited experience anyway, but I've heard others say the same thing.

I visited Montevideo recently, loved it. Think of a better maintained, smaller version of Havana. I couldn't help but notice it was absolutely full of ex-pats.

The government seems to be more stable than most in SA, and I didn't see the huge disparity of incomes that you see elsewhere, although I'm sure it's there to some degree.

There is a core of long term foreign retirees that hang out in zona rosa in Bogotá, they seem to have a very, very good life.

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dibbs says on May 5, 2007, 13:45:

Podborski, the thing with Uruguay is that Argentina and Brazil had struggled to control hyperinflation, cope with huge levels of debt, and strengthen the democratic process for many years, so many people who could afford to invest abroad did so in Uruguay, that's why you see so many ex-pats,There is great respect for people and their privacy there, whereas in Argentina and Brazil the people are being robbed. Inflation, retroactive taxes and devaluations, that's all taking money away from people,the Argentinian and Brazilian economy are doing extremely well right now but they need to prove themselves capable of maintaining that growth for at least a 10 year span before people flock back to invest there.

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lochdhu says on May 5, 2007, 17:21:

getting shot is over rated. and for the record I've been shot before in the wonderfully infested city of LA

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Man Tequila says on May 5, 2007, 21:17:

I think street smarts and physical toughness are different things. You can be physically tough and very naive. You can be weak and know how to stay out of trouble.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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goin_south says on May 6, 2007, 01:40:

yeah, wellllll....... i don't know what city yer in, but... a good friend of mine - who is colombian and lives there - said tonight that - for now, in Cali - and is from Cali originally - said that there was no going out tonight from the hotel. TOO MUCH TROUBLE AND INSECURITY. So, if you are going to Cali, you PROBABLY NEED TO WEAR YOUR AMORED (AS IN, BULLET-PROOFED) VEST.

Where do we go from here?

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goin_south says on May 6, 2007, 01:43:

It is obvious, from both the people who have been there most recently to visit, and even from THOSE WHO LIVE THERE - (damn! what were those three shots???!!! Damned! what was that that just about thew me off my chair!!!) (No es colombianita??) There is trouble in Cali.

So, be careful if you are a gringo, and you leave the airport... and see those herds of cows along side the highway .... they could be .... MEN IN BLACK!

jejejeeee!

Where do we go from here?

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Cerealkiller says on May 6, 2007, 02:53:

Well I think street smart is someone who is rational enough to give his/her stuff away when threatened with a knife, chuzo etc etc. Whenever I hear of someone getting shot or stabbed because he/she refused to giver their stuff away I cant help but think, the poor "sanababich" probably deserved it for being so godamn stupid.

Conservatives are not necessarily stupid, but most stupid people are conservatives -John Stuart Mill

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kalder says on May 6, 2007, 03:31:

CK "...the poor "sanababich" probably deserved it for being so godamn stupid."

Being assaulted, mugged, whatever on the street is an overwhelming experience. It's unlikely you're going to be able to have much conscious control over your reactions. You might turn to jelly; you may go beserk. Your response will be pretty much unpredictable.

And many men are biologically and culturally conditioned to fight. That can be a hard instinct to override and it takes training to contain it. In some cases, it can take as much discipline as it takes to stand your ground.

So yes, it may be foolish in the extreme to fail to comply with that knife-wielding or gun-waving thug, but it's not a moral failing either. And hardly an act deserving of being murdered.

CK- I think your reasoning is essentially a female one. You women can't empathise with the way we've been hardwired by genetics, history and societal expectation to have a 'fight' instinct equal in strength to our 'flight' one.

"kalder- have you ever had a woman?"--Sam Salmon

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miamimike says on May 6, 2007, 03:47:

CK-I agree with you !!! Here is an example of a recent robbery in a Hialeah(miami) warehouse robbery where the Robber pulled a Gun on this Woman! Instead of handing over a lousy $1000 and a few Fantasy Gold Rings she went for the Robber's Gun who was Robbing her! He pistol whipped her within an Inch of her Life! She was a True Idiot risking her life for a few bucks! Its a wonder she isn't dead! What an Idiot!
======================================================================
"Man arrested in pistol-whipping incident
BY DAVID SMILEY
dsmiley at MiamiHerald.com
Hialeah police have arrested a man who repeatedly and violently pistol whipped an employee of a warehouse during a robbery earlier this month. She will face extensive plastic reconstructive surgery operations medical personnel say,,,

Miami Herald news partner WFOR-CBS4 reported that police received a tip on the suspect's whereabouts Thursday.

The robbery happened April 13 at Industrial Sheet Metal Inc., 625 W 27 St. The man entered the office with a gun and demanded money and jewelry.

Wednesday, police released a video caught by surveilance cameras that showed the suspect beating office employee Angela Murton when she refused to cooperate and attacked him. She went to grab the Robber's Pistol.

Hialeah police have not released the suspect's name or what charges he faces."

"Wait a minute. What did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gas? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that." -- Feb. 28, 2008 --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C.

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Buongone says on May 6, 2007, 07:48:

Should have turned Around and walked back in the Bank. Chances are the dude's would of split. It's hard to say, but it's a split second decision.

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Man Tequila says on May 6, 2007, 12:06:

"Remember, every time you just give your shit up to a mugger you are doing your part to encourage mugging by making it easy money for those fuckers!"

That would make a beautiful epitaph.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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aztec says on May 6, 2007, 12:27:

I am beginning to worry about our friend Rubito. To remain alive in Bogotá he should remember that discretion may be the better part of valor. You are no coward when you avoid or walk away from a threat.

I have seen the small clown attempt to prove his manhood by taking on the biggest, baddest man in the place. Happens to my sons who are both 0ver 6'3' and one is over 240lb's. Sooner or latter Rubito, one of those aberrations will try you and he may be an expert with a knife.

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elreydelostrolls says on May 6, 2007, 13:36:

Rubito's gonna go down singing Bon Jovi's "Blaze of Glory":

Shot down in a blaze of glory
Take me now but know the truth
'Cause I'm going down in a blaze of glory
Lord I never drew first
But I drew first blood
I'm the devil's son
Call me young gun

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miamimike says on May 6, 2007, 15:05:

What's the Wise Old Saying,,, Better to live and see the light of a New Dawn as a Coward or as someone who turns away from a Fight then die a dead Hero,,,Each to his own,,,

"Wait a minute. What did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gas? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that." -- Feb. 28, 2008 --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C.

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pachangero says on May 7, 2007, 13:54:

DIBBS Thanks for having the GUTS to share your story.

You say you've been living in Colombia for a while. You appear to do some travelling for business. What line of business are you in may I ask? Always interested to hear of self sustaining foreigners in Colombia. If you don't want to share publicly I understand, we could take it private.

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elreydelostrolls says on May 7, 2007, 21:31:

"Better to live and see the light of a New Dawn as a Coward or as someone who turns away from a Fight then die a dead Hero."

I think it was Patton who said "no bastard ever won a war by dying for his country. You won it by making the other poor dumb bastard die for his country."

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Janneman says on May 8, 2007, 00:51:

Chauvanistic Colombians & Paranoid Americans This makes Colombia the worst country to talk about.
Basicly you can't say anything about Colombia or there is one of the above mentioned characters who want to get into a discussion.

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elreydelostrolls says on May 8, 2007, 06:04:

Fighting has its good and bad points. It does preserve your self-respect and honor, things most people barter away in return for order. OTOH, you're always in trouble with the authorities for fighting and sticking up for yourself. Still, there's nothing like a little shiv between the ribs to give a guy some perspective.

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jctripp says on May 8, 2007, 13:49:

giving papaya Giving papaya is a Colombian aphorism for handing over an opportunity to someone with bad intentions. Basically being stupid about the economic realities of the country. For example, leaving your wallet on your hotel bedside with money in it would be giving papaya (giving fruit). At least, that's my take on it. I used to think it was about getting laid since everyone was talking about it, LOL.



Think global, act loco

RiColombia.com | Colombia Culture & Tourism Blog

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Mr. Hollywood says on May 8, 2007, 15:08:

Panama cabs Uh, Nine Inch Nails, I have some news for you: All cabs in Panama City are Colectivos, meaning the cabbie has the RIGHT to accept other passengers while carrying you and charge them too. So it's perfectly normal for someone else to hop in the back with you, not a robbery attempt. Can be scary at first, though if you're used to what that suggests in Colombia.

If you don't want it to happen, better discuss with the cabbie beforehand.

Dibbs, sorry to hear you had this experience getting rolled. Sounds like you've got totally the right attitude about it, though.

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tkutlow says on May 10, 2007, 02:54:

a little concerned I've read all the posts in this thread and can't help but be a little concerned. I'll be moving to Periera the end of July '07. I wear a gold chain around my neck. I'm almost forty and I've been wearing it for the past 20 years, never taking it off. Should I leave this in the U.S.? I also wear a watch. It's worth about $200. And a ring worth about $600. Would it be unwise to wear these?

Lastly, is pepper spray legal in Colombia? Perhaps it would be a good idea to carry some.

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aztec says on May 10, 2007, 04:55:

It would be wiser to remove the gold. No need to tempt the criminals.

When my wife and I are in Bogotá we usually "down grade" those necessary items like watches. In public my wife only wears a simple wedding ring/band and no flashy jewelry.

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JMCana says on May 10, 2007, 05:19:

Ask Why tkutlow
Ask yourself why you wear those items, then determine if the reason for wearing them out-weighs how you will feel at the possibility of having them stolen?

But such a question to ask is not only in Colombia, but anywhere you are in the world.

i.e. - Perhaps where you are now, those items are an integral part of what makes you successful in business and is deemed necessary for who you interact with. In Colombia you may not be judged by the items you wear other than as a possible target.

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Miguel says on May 10, 2007, 08:56:

tkutlow Since you are moving to a city with a very high murder rate, you probably should sell the bling. You might want to invest in something a little stronger than pepper spray, while you are at it. Just invest in it when you are in Locolombia.

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Mr. Hollywood says on May 10, 2007, 10:14:

Sounds like Sounds to me like 20 years is about long enough to wear anything.

I think people overstate the basic risk of getting robbed for normal jewelry because I sure see a lot of Colombians walking around with nice watches and stuff, but why tempt fate? You've got enough things to think about as a foreigner without sweating over your valuables.

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webmanco says on May 11, 2007, 05:32:

I "down grade" all the time Life is much better without jewelry.

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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sweetg30 says on May 11, 2007, 06:14:

I'm sorry dibbs That sucks, i was going to do the samething you did, take out money from my bank account in Barranquilla, but thank God my dad told me the tellers usually know "people" and they send these people to rob you. I just came back from Barranquilla and i had a good time but people know you don't live there no matter how much you want to dress and look like everybody else. It could happen to anybody so don't feel bad, it wasn't your fault, some guy around where i was staying got robbed, he had 5 million pesos and he lives in Barranquilla so i don't know what was the deal with him, how are you supposed to get your money out of the bank? if you can't trust the tellers, one more time I'm sorry for the bad experience take care and be safe.

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Chelesupercono says on May 11, 2007, 10:46:

real eatate in Cartagena Has anyone bought property north of the airport where the really nice big beach is located? and is there the same problem there with vendors on the beach?

never go to bed with someone crazier then you are, you will do it and you will regret it.......

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nine inch nails says on May 11, 2007, 11:51:

Thanks Mr. Hollywood! A friend of mine said some other countries have taxis operate as colectivos also. I feel a lot better knowing this now since El Chorrillo (bad area) was just outside the causeway.

The girl was so pretty but her bag so big it frieked me. Other than that enjoyed Panama very much.

"They know nothing, they know nothing." J. Cramer

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aztec says on May 11, 2007, 15:15:

chicomalo, No buying... ...a $52,000 SUV is giving papaya.

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vicshere says on May 11, 2007, 15:35:

no giving papaya is a guy opps a gringo walking down the street with 4 mill and thinking he's not going to get robbed especially in Colombia .......especially after he got a bad feeling in the bank

listo

listo

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Mr. Hollywood says on May 11, 2007, 20:47:

In general I think "No dar papaya" is Colombian for "blame the victim".

It also means "don't be a chump" like don't walk around in Comuna Trece wearing a Rolex, but you generally hear it in reference to someone else's bad crime experience while a bunch of Colombians Monday morning quarterback all the things they would have been done differently. What's funny here is to see gringos doing it to another gringo.

Things I've heard as "giving papaya" included being kind to your hired help, stopping at the wrong intersection, having money, going to the countryside, having a significant other, not having a significant other...

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mecca says on May 11, 2007, 21:27:

Rubito, you're right STUPIDITY IS EVIL!!! the problem is that sharp in south america is not being clever. It's just watching your wallet or some very simple "street smarts". The miracle would be finding a dozen construction workers in colombia that could do something right the first time.

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mecca says on May 11, 2007, 21:35:

I hear you Rubito I'm probably just really frustrated. So your point is well taken.

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goin_south says on May 12, 2007, 03:14:

Yeah, you're right...rubito but, I think there's likely mostly equal amounts of both evil and stupidity just about everywhere you go, and we'll never rid the world of both. Although technology seems to be aimed at eliminating stupidity. And, I think the guys at the lead in technology are many times....evil-minded. Maybe not.

Where do we go from here?

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flatworld says on May 13, 2007, 13:49:

To bring this back to the subject . . . A friend just had this happen to her in BQ yesterday. I'm trying to find out what bank it was.... I can't help think that this stinks of major corruption. Even a dumb police force ought to be able to catch these slime balls.

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Buongone says on May 13, 2007, 16:03:

Policia Papaya They are probably on the take too!! Maybe they like the taste.

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DonCuloBlanco says on May 14, 2007, 06:52:

What? You guys don't speak English in the taxis? Ummm can I just tell you how rediculously paranoid that is. Look if the driver is one of the bad guys it won't matter if you speak English Dutch or jibberish. It is not because you are speaking English or are a forigner that you are going to get robbed it is because you got into the wrong taxi. Those odds are the same for everyone. The Taxi is stolen and the time spent in that taxi is spent robbing people not running up fares. If you can't read the meter or ask before you get in for a ride where they don't have meters than no amount of speaking Spanish is going to keep you from being taken advantage of. Pay what is on the meter and get out of the taxi. Enough said.

As far as giving papaya I don't get where this guy did that? He was just unlucky. It is real easy for some tourist to say he was giving papaya but just how in the hell do you live here and never walk around with your laptop. So what do you do leave it at work on your desk? Now that is giving papaya. He had it in his backpack not in a laptop case. This is how everyone does it. He was just in the wrong bank at the wrong time and that is it.

Shit happens and in Colombia it happens more frequently. You can't change that no matter how careful you are. If you can't accept that and live your life anyway then Colombia is not for you.

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Mr. Hollywood says on May 14, 2007, 13:13:

HI GIB! Welcome back. Hope your vacation served you well.

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suizo says on May 15, 2007, 08:31:

Know what it feels like Dibbs, glad you are alive.

I was in Colombia during April. Once again a great experience. Except: One day we rented a car to visit Piedra de Penol, a little bit outside of Medellin. Heading back to the city I accidently almost hit a motorcycle driver. Well he wasn't to amused...and pulled out a small machine gun and pointed it towards my face. I thought I was going to die...hit breaks (idiot! should have knocked him over). Seems he just wanted to scare us..HA HA HA. No rounds fired, luckily. Nevertheless, we were all shocked. It was the last time my friends would let me drive a car in Colombia...

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vicshere says on May 15, 2007, 09:03:

hey suizo you were right...when the gun came out you should have run him off the road fast.....till the end of the year it is illegal to carry a fire arm on a motorcycle throughout the whole country.....unless you are police, military.. or have a special carry permit for your job like security guard.

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vicshere says on May 15, 2007, 09:41:

change post actually I would like to change my previous post......I forgot...that many bodyguards will travel with a fire arm on a motorcycle and will usually be following or leading a 4 wheeler with tinted windows.....you don't want to mess with these guys....they will shoot first ask questions later....anyway I thought about your situation and it may have been a bodyguard defending the rear of his unit......cause a normal thief wouldn't use a machine gun....but bodyguards do... so a good thing you steered clear

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