Beware of hijacking and theft when you are out shopping these holidays

DOUGLASDALE – Read how not to become a victim of hijackings in the area.

March 29, 2018

Masego Seemela 1 minute read

Douglasdale police together with the community patrollers take to the streets on the corner of Douglas Drive and Leslie Road to highlight the criminal activity during the holiday season.

With the Easter holidays upon us, the Douglasdale police together with the community patrollers took to the streets on the corner of Douglas Drive and Leslie Road to highlight the criminal activity during the holiday season.

The head of communications for the Douglasdale Police Station, Captain Mpho Tshetlhane stated that the crime awareness was to alert motorists on hijackings and theft out of motor vehicle when they are out shopping or at their homes.

Tshetlhane added that criminals who hijack vehicles rely on the element of surprise, as with this type of crime, the less aware you are, the better it is for their hijack to be successful.

She explained that motorists can avoid this crime by:

Always checking your blind spots and being aware when leaving and arriving home. In order not to get distracted, do not use your cell phone in the two minutes that you approach your destination
While waiting for your gate to open, stay parallel to the edge of the wall and only enter the driveway when the gate is fully open. This gives you the opportunity to drive away if need be
Pay attention to unusual sights and sounds in your neighbourhood. Pedestrians wandering near your driveway or sounds of shouting can be a warning of danger
Not remaining stationary if you do not have to. A moving target is harder to hit than one that sits and waits
Before coming to a stop, take notice of people standing at intersections and looking at your vehicle. Be especially aware of people who do not seem to have a purpose
When returning home after dark, make sure that the outside lights are on and, if possible, ask for an escort from your security company
When leaving a shopping centre, remain cautious of any cars following you, always check your rear-view mirror, and look out for vehicles that are consistently behind you with more than one male in the vehicle.

“We advise community members to be cautious these holidays and we wish everyone a wonderful Easter.”