Archive · 4 Aug 2025
Indian Entrepreneur's Travel Ordeal After Barcelona Theft
An Indian entrepreneur lost his passport, visa, and money after a theft in Barcelona.
While at a Starbucks, his bag was stolen.
He shared his experience on social media, including difficulties with the police and the time it took to get CCTV footage.
The Indian embassy helped him get a temporary passport quickly, allowing him to fly back home.
He shared his story to help others facing similar situations.
Indian entrepreneur Ayush Panchmiya's passport, US visa, credit cards, and cash were stolen in Barcelona.
The theft occurred at a Starbucks while he was briefly away from his bag.
Panchmiya reported the incident on X (formerly Twitter), describing the 48-hour ordeal.
He was told by police it would take 15-20 days to review CCTV footage.
The Indian embassy issued an emergency certificate within hours, enabling his return to India.
- Who
- Ayush Panchmiya, an Indian entrepreneur.
- What
- Ayush Panchmiya's passport, US visa, credit cards, and cash were stolen.
- When
- Shortly after arriving in Barcelona after attending ETHCC in Cannes.
- Where
- Barcelona, Spain, at a Starbucks.
- Why
- The reason for the theft is not explicitly stated; appears to be a crime of opportunity.
Victim's Perspective
Public/General Perspective
Impact of Crime
Victim's Perspective
The loss of passport and visa caused considerable stress and disruption.
Public/General Perspective
Leaving the bag unattended could be seen as careless and inviting theft.
- Victim
- Ayush Panchmiya
- Location
- Barcelona, Spain
- Stolen Items
- Passport, US visa, Credit Cards, Cash
- Embassy Response
- Emergency certificate issued in 4-5 hours
- Platform
- X (formerly Twitter)
Sources
‘Lost my passport, US visa’: How Indian entrepreneur survived ‘worst 48 hours’ of his life in Spain
'Lost Passport, Visa, Cash': Indian Entrepreneur Recounts 48-Hour Ordeal In Spain
Passport, cash, visa lost in Spain: Here's how Indian founder made it back to India 48 hours