VIDEO: Hijackers are always on the lookout – use these tips to prevent becoming a victim
The attempted hijacking of ANC MP Sibusiso Radebe, avoid quiet and secluded areas, and areas notorious for hijackings.
Florida Police spokesperson, Lydia Dikolomela, expressed her concern after the police had noted an alarming spike in hijackings and attempted hijackings.
Read more on the incident here: Uber driver stabbed in trap
“Hijackers, like other criminals, are opportunists and always on the lookout for unobservant victims,” said Dikolomelo.
Dikolomelo gave the following advice and tips:
How to prevent hijackings:
· Be observant of your surroundings at all times. It can happen to you.
· If you are suspicious of a situation, drive away, stay clear of the area and phone the police.
· Keep the doors and windows closed and valuables out of sight.
· Do not respond to other motorists or pedestrians indicating that there is something wrong with your vehicle (rather drive to the nearest garage or police station).
· In case of a breakdown immediately phone the emergency services and/ or insurance company (if relevant).
· Beware of people asking for directions.
· Keep your house and car keys separate.
· Do not try to remove or move obstacles in the road. If safe to do so, drive around them and report it to the Metropolitan Police Department or police.
· Avoid routine routes to and from work, shops etc.
· Avoid quiet and secluded areas, and areas notorious for hijackings.
· If your vehicle is bumped from behind, do not stop. Rather drive to the nearest garage or police station.
· Never pick up strangers or hitchhikers.
If you are hijacked:
· Obey all demands by the hijackers. Do not offer resistance.
· Try to remember as many details as possible without the hijackers noticing – number of attackers, their clothing, number of vehicles involved.
· Do not become aggressive, threaten or challenge them.
· Make notes immediately after the incident, while it is still fresh in your mind.
The intersection of Wilgerood and CR Swart Roads is one of the top three hijacking hot spots in Gauteng.
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