Kidnapping – prevention is better than cure
Kidnapping in South Africa is on the rise, be aware
Kidnapping in South Africa, both by organised crime syndicates, as well as amateur copycat groups, is on the rise, and in many cases, the victims are young children.
Three of the most recent cases include those of the missing four-year-old Liyaqat ‘Lee’ Mentoor from Roodekrans who went missing on 16 March (he has still not been found), the one-year-old Eden Laird from Alberton who was kidnapped by his nanny (he was later found safe) and the 12-year old Katlego Marite from Witbank who was kidnapped on 20 May (he was also found safe a few days later.)
Also Read: WATCH: #HelpFindLee: Community joins hands in search for Lee
According to a Facebook post from the Pink Ladies Organisation, the community should be more aware of the fact that, while crime syndicates are targeting high-value individuals that would be more likely to pay ransoms of millions, there are also amateur, copycat kidnappers, who are targeting individuals that would be able to pay smaller ransoms.According to Dudley Booysen, the Managing Director at Achilles Risk Solutions, it is important to never underestimate kidnappers, even amateur, copycat kidnappers.
“Should you be a victim of a kidnapping/ abduction, it is very important to stay calm, think rationally and be cooperative.
Use all your senses and note everything you can, while taking in as much information about your captors, vehicles, routes, hideouts and surroundings as possible. This information can assist the authorities in their investigation,” he said. Prevention is the only solution.
If you feel you may be at risk or would just like to be more aware, here are a few tips:
• Do not be predictable and don’t set patterns. Alter your routes to and from work and the times you leave and return to your house.
• Make sure somebody always knows where you are. If you’re going out with new colleagues or friends, send your location to somebody you trust.
• Be wary about social media and posting your location on Facebook, as this will assist the kidnappers in identifying your favourite places to visit.
• When socialising, do not accept drinks from unknown people, do not leave your drink unattended and stay in a group.
• Make use of smart cellphone apps that will notify chosen people if you find yourself in a dangerous situation.
• Do an advanced driving course that will equip you with tools to use when you find yourself in a threatening situation and needing to escape.
• Know which routes are the safest, the locations of police stations, security companies and/ or corporate companies with armed guards that could assist you.
• Report any suspicious people or vehicles to the police or your local security company. Seek professional advice from a reputable security service provider should you feel threatened.
• Trust your gut – if somebody, a situation or place makes you feel uncomfortable, remove yourself from it immediately.
He concluded by saying, “Fewer than 10 per cent of kidnap victims have been killed or have died during their confinement; however, the trauma from being a kidnap victim will be endured long after. People need to take care of themselves.”
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
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