Duduza police have appealed to the community to be weary of criminals.
Hijackers are reported to be targeting unsuspecting people sitting in their vehicles and robbing them of their valuables and cars.
The appeal from police follows a number of hijacking cases reported at the Duduza Police Station, where the perpetrators approach people sitting in their vehicles.
According to Sgt Harry Manaka, communications officer at Duduza SAPS, in a space of three days two vehicles were hijacked in the area, using the same modus operandi.
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On January 5, the owner of a BMW was sitting inside the car with his girlfriend when two males approached the couple and threatened them at gunpoint.
The victims were robbed of their cellphones and cash before the criminals drove off with the owner of the vehicle and dropped him off a few kilometres from the scene.
Manaka said the owner of a Toyota Hilux, who was also sitting in the car with his girlfriend, was targeted a day later.
The couple was robbed of cash and cellphones by two armed men before they were forced out of the vehicle.
The men then drove away in the vehicle.
“The criminals target vehicles with occupants parked on pavements.
“They then point firearms at them and force them out of the vehicle or force them to move into the vehicle, drive away with them and drop them off in secluded areas far from the scene,” added Manaka.
Police emphasised that people should avoid parking and sitting inside their vehicles, especially after dark.
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“Look around for any suspicious-looking people and ensure the emergency police number is always on hand,” said Manaka.
While police are looking for these criminals and have increased visibility and other crime prevention measures, the community is advised to take extra precaution by being vigilant.
Anyone with information that may assist police in the arrest of these criminals is urged to call Duduza police on 071 675 7027 or SAPS Crime Stop on 0800 10111.
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