Thieves target unsuspecting golfers in Majorca

Golfers playing in Majorca are being warned to take extra care of their personal belongings after a spate of thefts from golf bags have been reported by golfers while playing rounds on the Spanish island.

According to reports in the local media, crooks are moving the cups to the edge of the greens on certain holes close to roads and fences in order to make it easier for them to steal golfer’s belongings without being seen and to make a quick escape.

The theft problems are said to be affecting golf courses in and around the capital, Palma, as well as the municipality of Calvia, which includes Magaluf, Santa Ponsa and Andratx.

One popular golf club on the holiday island is putting clients on guard by handing out leaflets in four languages, including English, warning them to be on the lookout for thieves and to keep a close eye on their belongings while playing.

Thieves stole a £16,000 Swiss watch and more than £1,300 in cash from the bag of a distracted golfer earlier this week as he focused on his putt and took his eyes off his clubs and other belongings according to local newspaper reports.

Vall d’Or Golf on the island’s east coast is handing out leaflets in Spanish, English, French and German to golfers before they start playing. It stated: “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, said: “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 watches and money has gone missing.”