thievery corporation....

Unfortunately, that band didn't show up in Algiers...but larceny is alive and well, so bewares!!!

Before I get into specifics, I blame myself for letting my defenses down.

So I was walking down the sidewalk in broad daylight when a real bonafide lunatic began screaming vehemently at me from across the street. Naturally, I felt uncomfortable, but then again I dont know why, because that scene is actually one that occasionally plays out on the streets of Algiers. Anyways, I asked a young lad standing near me if that guy was crazy, and he jumped right into "Shkoon inta?" (trans. "Who are you?") and shook my hand rather firmly. I said "Miguel" and before I knew it another young guy was on my right greeting me with a hand my shoulder, saying Salaam alaykum. Turns his "Salaam Alaykum" did not mean "Peace be upon you",but rather, "I'm taking your camera fool!" because upon retrospect I realized that it was at that precise moment that my digicam was purloined from my camera pouch attached to my belt. I didnt realize that until after I'd walked further down the street about 20 seconds later. Then, I returned and they were all gone.

Maybe it was a blessing I didnt realize it at the time, because if I had, they were working in a group and may have resorted to violence.

I dont think I've mentioned it before, but there's alot of young guys all over the streets of Algiers with nothing to do. Some are like "parking attendants" for certain stretches of curb, but most seem to have no job. Its also almost a custom for the men to just hang out in the street with their pals, but I'd say the young guys seem to be there more often and also into the wee hours of the night.

People have warned me to be wary on the streets and I've heard of different incidents. So, again, I blame myself.

So gone is my digicam and for now, any new photos. I did lose my pix from my previous weekend getaway which included...Setif, Cheb Khaled concert in Setif, the Roman ruins of Djemila and Timgad, and a couple of shots of Batna. Other than that no big loss.

This was actually only the second time in my life that I've ever been pickpocketed. The first was when my wallet was stolen at La Bombonera Soccer Stadium in Toluca, Mexico. Luckily, it was my "false" wallet. When I travel in Mexico, I set up a 2 wallet system for such occasions. My true wallet, which may have more $ and credit cards, I keep well esconced on my person, while the "false" wallet will have maybe $20 and that's it.

The next day at Bouzareah, I told my friends there in the staff room about it and they commiserated with me over past incidents they've experienced. Then, the day after that ironically, the English department office was burgled!!! They took two computers and a monitor. :(

May sound corny, but at least they didn't take my pride, my dignity, my heart and soul. :) and what the heck, I get to try a new digicam soon! In fact, I think I'll try all of my friends' cameras to see which one I like the most! :)