What are “motochorros” in Buenos Aires and How to Protect Yourself From Them?

In Argentina, crime has evolved into different forms over time. In all of them, an increase in violence as a means to commit crimes is evident, ranging from physical assault to gunfire.

The practice of criminals using motorcycles for robbery has plagued Buenos Aires for more than a decade. Attempts to control this type of crime have failed, while the number of motorcycles on the streets continues to grow, making prevention initiatives even more challenging.

Here, we’ll explain what “motochorros” are, a type of crime you may encounter in Buenos Aires. We’ll tell you how to protect yourself from these crimes, their methods of operation, and the areas where this type of crime is more likely to occur.

Safety in Buenos Aires: The Areas You Should Avoid During Your Stay

What are “motochorros” in Buenos Aires and How to Protect Yourself From Them?

What are Motochorros?

Motochorros are criminals who use motorcycles to commit crimes. They typically use stolen vehicles in their criminal activities, making it difficult to identify the perpetrators, as the motorcycle is not registered in their name.

These criminals usually work in pairs: one drives the motorcycle, while the other dismounts to attack the victim and steal the target items—usually electronic devices, money, or vehicles.

Main Characteristics of Motochorros in Buenos Aires

1. They use stolen motorcycles that are not registered in their name, typically taken in previous crimes.
2. They usually “work” in pairs: one drives while the other commits the crime.
3. This is one of the most common forms of crime in the Buenos Aires Province.
4. In the City of Buenos Aires, such robberies have decreased by more than 50% between 2018 and 2023. However, they remain common.
5. Some incidents involving motochorros result in firearm attacks against victims.
6. It is common for minors to be involved in these crimes, as they are not criminally liable under Argentine law and face much lighter penalties compared to adults.
7. Tourists are the primary targets of motochorros.
8. They also tend to target cars and motorcyclists, either to steal the passengers’ belongings or to take the vehicle itself.
9. Before committing the crime, they conduct “intelligence work,” which involves driving slowly down streets, avenues, or areas while identifying potential victims to rob. Motochorros act in a matter of seconds. Surprise and speed are key to the success of their crimes.

Where Do Motochorros Attack in Buenos Aires?

Motochorros mainly operate in the central area of Buenos Aires City. This includes Commune 1, encompassing the neighborhoods of Retiro, San Nicolás, Monserrat, San Telmo, and Constitución.

This does not mean that their area of operation cannot extend to other neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. In fact, where they know there are tourists, they are likely to strike: La Boca, Palermo, and Recoleta.

Here you can consult the crime map of the City of Buenos Aires

When Do Motochorros Attack in Buenos Aires?

They usually choose nighttime to carry out their robberies. This time of day guarantees easy escape routes, as there are no traffic jams, and they can take advantage of a slight reduction in security and fewer police officers patrolling the streets of Buenos Aires.

Additionally, they often operate in the afternoon, especially on weekends or in neighborhoods where commercial and pedestrian activity drops significantly during the evening hours.

Tips for Acting and Identifying a Motochorro Robbery in Buenos Aires

1. Never respond with violence during a motochorro robbery. Situations where the victim resists and fights back often end fatally.
2. As a traveler, always maintain a panoramic view when walking through tourist areas. If you are going to take photos or record with your mobile device, look around first to ensure there are no suspicious people nearby.
3. Avoid talking on the phone and getting distracted by it on the street unless it is strictly necessary.
4. If you detect a motochorro robbery targeting you, run and seek refuge in a store or near a police officer. Always run towards avenues, where you are more likely to find security personnel.
5. Be cautious of motorcycles on sidewalks. Most of the time, they are delivery riders, but sometimes they can be motochorros conducting intelligence work.
6. Avoid walking long distances late at night. Use public transportation, a taxi, or a ride-sharing service like Cabify to avoid unpleasant situations.
7. If you are driving a car or riding as a passenger, roll up the windows and stay alert when stopped at a traffic light.
8. When walking on the sidewalk, walk against the direction of traffic so that you can notice any unusual situations and react preventively.
9. Memorize all characteristics of the motochorros (motorcycle license plate, clothing, face, the street where the crime occurs) and file a report. Remember that Buenos Aires City has an extensive video surveillance system.

(Featured Image Source: Fernando Luna/flickr.com)