In the crowded, winding streets of Venice, a 58-year-old Venetian woman is gaining global recognition for her unique efforts to combat the rise of pickpocketing in one of the world’s most iconic tourist destinations. Monica Poli, a volunteer with the group Cittadini Non Distratti (Undistracted Citizens), has become a local hero for tourists and residents alike, using her vigilant presence to protect visitors from petty criminals.
For years, Venice has attracted millions of tourists, but with the influx of visitors, the city’s narrow lanes and crowded public transport have also become prime targets for pickpockets. Amid the growing concern over petty crime, Poli has taken it upon herself to patrol these areas, particularly near Venice’s famous Rialto Bridge. Armed with her signature shout, “Attenzione, pickpocket!”—in Italian, English, and Spanish—she warns unsuspecting tourists, effectively preventing thefts in real time. In some instances, her warnings have stopped pickpockets in their tracks, with tourists expressing their gratitude for her efforts. One French visitor, for example, thanked her, acknowledging the significant problem that pickpocketing has become.
Poli’s crime-fighting work, which began decades ago, has gained worldwide attention, especially after her first video on TikTok in June 2023 went viral. The video garnered a staggering 69 million views, launching her into social media stardom. Today, she has over 605,000 followers on Instagram, and her videos, which often feature her warnings, are widely shared across multiple platforms. Her catchphrase has even been remixed into songs and used in protest videos, further amplifying her impact.
Rising Petty Crime in Venice
Poli’s efforts come amid a surge in petty crime in Venice. According to a report from Italy’s Interior Ministry in September 2024, thefts on public transport have sharply risen, with train thefts nationwide climbing by 21% and a staggering 38.8% increase in Venice alone. The majority of victims are foreign tourists, who make up a disproportionate percentage of theft cases. The number of thefts on Venice’s metro, trains, and buses involving foreign visitors has reached alarming figures—94%, 81%, and 78%, respectively.
A law implemented in December 2022, known as the riforma Cartabia (Cartabia reform), has been criticized for potentially enabling pickpockets to evade prosecution. The law requires victims of theft to file formal reports for pickpockets to be prosecuted, but if the victim fails to appear in court, the case is dismissed. Critics argue that many tourists are unlikely to return to Venice for trial hearings, leaving criminals with little risk of punishment.
Despite the law, the rising crime rate in Venice has not slowed down. In 2019, 82 arrests were made for pickpocketing, but by November 2024, only two arrests had been recorded.
A Lifelong Mission
Poli’s commitment to preventing pickpocketing goes back to the 1990s, when she worked in a popular clothing store that catered to Japanese tourists. At the time, many of the store’s customers were frequently targeted by pickpockets. Witnessing the distress of her customers when they realized their wallets had been stolen, Poli was motivated to join Cittadini Non Distratti, a volunteer group dedicated to combating pickpocketing.
Founded in the 1990s, the group has around 50 active members, including people working in the tourist and transport industries. Poli is often seen patrolling the streets of Venice, even during routine errands, always on the lookout for suspicious behavior. “I think I do it out of a sense of civic pride,” she said of her commitment.
Her actions continue to serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in high-tourist areas. As Venice faces rising crime rates, Poli’s tireless work is helping to protect both the city’s visitors and its reputation as a beautiful and safe destination.
For now, Venice residents and tourists alike can feel a little safer, knowing that Monica Poli is on patrol, keeping an eye out for criminals looking to take advantage of the unaware.
Sources By Agencies
