Russian Mobsters
Russian mobsters are an ugly, darker side of Moscow. We call these guys "gopniki". Children of slums, they hunt mostly during the night. You can easily spot them by sports clothing and dumb faces.
Fortunately, your chances to meet them are purely theoretical. They like to concentrate in their own neighborhoods, and rarely appear in the city center. But what happens if you DO stumble upon them?
Well, let's find out, shall we?
Imagine - it's a pleasant evening, you're enjoying the view, when suddenly a group of drunk youngsters approach. You don't understand a word they're saying, but there's nothing much to understand. They are dumb, they are aggressive, and they definitely want your stuff.
1) DO NOT PANIC. The golden rule that works every time. Whether it's Russian mobsters, Godzilla or aliens from outer space - your chances increase drastically when you're calm. Think, then act.
2) To prevent is easier than to cope. As I explained on my Moscow survival skills page, try to avoid the places where such things may happen. Have a meeting in Butovo, Perovo, Novogireevo and like? Try to go there by car during the day. Taking a bus there at night is a really bad idea.
3) Don't wander alone. Especially in a slum. Having a couple of local friends by your side makes you a much less attractive target.
4) See if there's police around. If you're somewhere near the Kremlin, there must be a couple of cops nearby. But then again, chances to be attacked by gang in the city center are next to none.
5) Play it dumb. Might just work. Just another foreigner who doesn't speak Russian and can't understand what those guys want from him. Make it easier for them to find a local.
6) Don't be a hero. If there's no police - think about running. Unless of course you're Jason Bourne.
7) Again, don't be a hero. When there's nothing you can really do - give them what they want. Admit it - your gadgetry is not worth your life.
It's not easy for me to write this page. I don't want you to think Moscow is a gang town. After all, can't you possibly be attacked in New York? Or Paris? There are dangerous spots anywhere, right?
Exercise reasonable precautions and you'll be fine, don't worry! And remember - your judgment is always the best!
Related posts:
- Moscow bombings.
- GIBDD - the Moscow Road Police Force
- Dealing with Moscow police part II
- Moscow survival skills - page 2
- Moscow survival skills
- Russian nazi skinheads - myths and facts
- Moscow traffic survival guide
- Dealing with Moscow police.
- Islamic terrorism in Russia - is it really THAT scary?
