What to do if you have been robbed
February 1, 2012
Information provided by a victim.
Someone has volunteered to review this with the
Ministerio's office - but hasn't had time to date.
First, do not touch anything which may carry fingerprints. These are detectable for only about two days after the event, so time is of the essence. The Ministerio Publico will send a team out who will examine the scene for fingerprints using both white and black powder depending on the color of the surface being examined. They may also wish to take along evidence if necessary for their investigation. If there was a break in, the penalty is much greater than if the criminal got in through an unlocked door or open window.
Do not call the police unless the crime is in progress, or someone has been injured. Their job is to stop a crime, after that the Ministerio Público takes over the investigation.
As soon as possible, get your paperwork together and go directly to the office of the Ministerio Publico. A case will not be opened until you have provided the following documentation:
- 4 copies of your passport, the photo page only
- 4 copies of your latest CFE bill
- 4 copies of your immigration card, both sides.
- 4 copies of the deed to your property. All pages. ( this seems to be necessary only in Jocotepec)
Once this has been done they will make a complete report of the incident, which you will sign and then they will send a police officer with you to photograph the crime scene and make additional notes if necessary.
If the thieves have taken valuable jewelry household goods or electronics, either provide a copy of your insurance policy listing these items, plus photos if available, or a receipt showing the value of the items stolen. If this is not possible you will have to give them a description which will make it more difficult to find your goods if they have been found or fenced.
If you do not speak reasonably fluent Spanish you will need an interpreter. They must ask you by law if you speak Spanish, since you are a foreign resident. It would be a good idea to take your own since any delay will slow down the process considerably. An interpreter can also keep you calm under stress, since you know the report is being filed correctly.