THE increase in the number of car hijackings over the past eight years shows the importance of driver vigilance, at all times, said Charnel Hattingh, national marketing and communications manager at Fidelity ADT, in response to recently released crime stats.
In its September report, the SAPS revealed that 16 026 incidents had been reported during the 2018/2019 reporting period. This is an increase from a low point in 2011/2012, when 9 417 incidents were reported.
For this past reporting period, most incidents occurred in Gauteng (7 776) followed by KwaZulu-Natal (2 764) and the Western Cape (2 294). Nyanga in the Western Cape had the most reported incidents (273) compared to any other precinct.
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“October is Transport Month, a period to renew our focus on all matters relating to transport. It is an ideal opportunity to make sure we are properly prepared and that we know exactly what to do and what not to do, if this should happen to us or our loved ones,” said Hattingh.
If you do find yourself the victim of a hijacking, she said the first and golden rule is to not antagonise the hijackers.
“You need to show them you are not a threat. Lift up your arms to show you have no weapon and will surrender. Use your left arm to undo your seatbelt and put your car in neutral. Do not turn off your car, and get out slowly. Try and angle your body sideways so you are not facing a firearm head-on. Also remember to protect your head with your arms and avoid direct eye contact with the hijackers but try to take in what they are wearing, the sound of their voices, and any other unique identifying features that could help police later. Most importantly, try to remain calm,” she concluded.
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