Hijackings on the rise in Mpumalanga

The Hawks or Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in Mpumalanga, is concerned about hijacking incidents which are alarming throughout the province recently.

The Hawks is therefore reiterating about what is always said on hijacking prevention.

A hijacked truck was recovered with its driver tied up with ropes and wires inside in Delmas on Wednesday October 19.

In a separate incident, the vigilance by officers from the Middelburg’s Highway Patrol has led to the recovery of a hijacked silver VW Polo Vivo and saved a life of the victim on Friday, October 14 – also in Delmas.

According to information at police’s disposal, the truck was allegedly hijacked in North West province.

As a word of caution, drivers are advised to take heed of the following:

Before leaving your house or undertaking a journey ensure that everything in your vehicle is in adequate conditions to avoid being stuck on the road. Prepare for your journey, know the direction and destination of where you are going. Ensure that before driving off, all windows and doors are properly locked. Have the contact numbers of the police stations, emergency services, family members, neighbours, colleagues or any other numbers which you can call in the stage of predicaments.

Do not pick up hitchhikers or strangers on the road. While driving, check rear-view mirror to ensure you are not being followed. When you see a suspicious vehicle following you, alert the police with information about the vehicle, model, colour, registration numbers, and number of occupants if possible and proper direction or you can drive to the nearest police station.

Ensure that while approaching traffic lights or stop signs, allow adequate space between you and the vehicle in front of you. Do not entertain the stranger who would hoot or try to stop you while driving especially at night. You rather let them follow you while driving straight to the police station.

Do not park on the side of the road to refresh or relieve yourself, you better stop at the service station.

When approaching your vehicle at the parking area and see a suspicious vehicle/ persons next to your vehicle, do not approach, you rather report the matter to the police or security officers for help.

When approaching your driveway, be on the lookout for suspicious vehicles or people.

This is very important as the majority of hijackers approach their victims in home driveways.

IN THE CASE OF A HIJACKING IN PROGRESS:

• Remember, that your life is worth more than your vehicle.

• Do not antagonise or aggravate the hijacker(s).

• Do not resist.

• Avoid making eye contact – the hijacker may perceive this as a threat.

• Leave the engine running and exit the vehicle.

• Try to put as much space between you and the hijacker(s).

• Remain calm and try to take note of as many details of the hijacker(s) as possible.

• Keep your cellphone in your body as the hijacker cannot allow you to take the cellphone.