UK tourists warned of thieves on Arriva buses

British citizens have been told by the Foreign and Commonwealth office to be on the lookout when travelling to Malta because of an increase in the number of pickpocketing incidents on buses. The warning, issued a few days ago, states that incidents of pickpocketing increased drastically since May, adding that the thieves are targeting “crowded afternoon buses”, particularly in Sliema, St Julian’s and Paceville. The British travel advice said the Malta police were aware of the problem. “Since May 2013, there have been a high number of pickpocketing incidents on main bus routes, especially the 13 and 12 from Sliema to Valletta and routes between St Julian’s and Paceville,” the Foreign and Commonwealth office said. “Thieves are targeting crowded afternoon buses. Be vigilant and keep sight of valuables at all times,” it warned. The rise of pickpocketing thefts, apparently by foreign organised gangs, is also doing the rounds on travel-related websites including the popular Trip Advisor. Recounting a personal experience, a couple from Newark said their wallet was stolen while on a “crowded bus” to Sliema. “There was a spate of it going on and we spoke to many people who had the same...