The Putfontein Police are concerned about motor vehicle hijackings for the past few weeks.
Puftontein SAPS spokesperson Sgt Raider Ubisi said the hijackers are mostly targeting the Toyota Hilux GD6 and the Toyota Fortuner GD6.
“In the reported incidents, the criminals follow victims from public spaces to quieter spots or they were hijacked in their driveways while opening or closing their gate,” said Ubisi.
“It is unclear why these specific cars are being targeted, however, we also urge other motorists to be vigilant.”
Ubisi said warned that these hijackers are focused on doing a job and the occupants of the car should not get in the way of this.
“We urge residents not to resist, argue or fight as this can result in injury or worse.
“We appeal to the community to be extra careful. We still have to ensure residents are safe and criminals are put behind bars.”
The spokesperson shared some tips to help keep residents safe:
• Do not leave your vehicle engine running when get out.
• Avoid isolated areas at all times.
• Limit your night trips or at least take someone along with you or consider using a lift club instead of travelling alone.
• If strangers are loitering near or at your driveway, rather drive past first.
• If something seems suspicious, do not talk to strangers; rather be rude and drive away.
• Vary the route you travel to and from work if possible.
• Do not give hitchhikers a lift.
• Do not stop if someone shows you have a flat tyre or there is something wrong with your vehicle. Rather drive to a safe place like a filling station or the nearest police station.
Ubisi said police have intensified patrolling in the area.
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