Britons travelling to Majorca have been warned about an elaborate new scam, in which thieves target those who take up a relaxing round of golf in the Spanish sun.
One popular golf club in the holiday hotspot has started handing out leaflets to players before they reach the first tee.
It is reported that lowlife criminals have been caught drilling holes in greens and relocating flags to lure unsuspecting golfers to remote and secluded areas - where they can be robbed of their possessions out of sight.
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The Mirror reports that a number of golf courses in and around the capital Palma have been targeted - while Calvia, which is made up of Magaluf, Santa Ponsa and Andratx have also been having their own problems with criminals. Island newspaper Diario de Mallorca earlier this week reported that thieves made off with a £16,000 Swiss watch and in excess of £1,300 from one distracted golfer's bag - as he took his eyes off his belongings and went to sink his golf ball.
Vall d'Or Golf, which is situated near Portocolom has started handing out leaflets in Spanish, English, French and German to players before they take to the fairways. It reads: "Dear clients, given the wave of thefts that are taking place in the golf courses of Majorca, we remind you to keep an eye on your belongings."
Israel Rodriguez, director of the club which is popular with British expats and holidaymakers, meanwhile told local press: “It might not be a very commercial solution, but it’s been the most effective because after the theft has taken place all we can do is advise victims they should report it.
“Better to advise them before and not after they find their £13,000 watch and another £550 in cash has gone missing as has happened.”
The criminals responsible for the thefts are said to study courses carefully before making their move, and they also target would-be victims in secluded spots to enhance their chances of making off. The most popular areas tend to be open and without nearby fencing, so thieves can make a rapid getaway.
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