The number of cars and trucks being hijacked on the N14 highway and surrounding offramps has increased over the last month.
“The latest hijacking pattern in Muldersdrift usually involves three vehicles,” says Jorncy Page, CPF Chairman.
“The first two vehicles point out a ‘problem’ with your car or truck as they drive past – the aim being to get you to pull over.
“When you do pull over to check your vehicle, the suspects in the third vehicle, which would have followed you, then hijacks your truck or car.”
Page warns drivers not to fall prey to this new ploy. He says patrols were increased near the Lion Park but now the incidents seem to have moved closer to Beyers Naudé Drive and Cradlestone Mall.
“Please don’t pull over if this happens to you. If someone does point out a problem with your car while on the road, drive to the nearest petrol station or police station and then check your car safely.”
Mike Francisco, security spokesperson for the Muldersdrift Communication Action Group says while there is no guarantee what action will prevent hijacking, practicing the following common-sense techniques can reduce the risk:
• Inspect the outside and inside of the vehicle before unlocking.
• Know your destination and directions to it, and be alert should you get lost.
• Don’t talk on your cellphone while driving and lose your focus.
• Always drive with your windows and doors locked and/or closed. Windows should be left no more than 5cm open.
• Make a mental note of any police stations in the vicinity while driving.
• Avoid driving late at night or in the early hours of the morning when the roads are quiet.
• Drive in the centre lane away from pedestrians where possible.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• Never follow routine routes when driving; change on a regular basis.
• Check rear-view mirror to ensure that you are not being followed.
• When returning home after dark, ensure that there is an outside light on, or have someone meet you at the door.
• When exiting your vehicle, be cautious and aware of surrounding obstructions and shrubbery that may be concealing a hijacker.
What to do if you are hijacked
• The first and golden rule: Do 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 seat belt and put your car in neutral.
• Be cautious not to use your right arm to lean across your body and undo your seat belt or unlock the door. This could be construed as you reaching for a gun.
• Do not turn off your car.
• Get out slowly and 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 to lift your shoulders to protect your neck area.
• Do not turn your back on the hijackers – your organs are most exposed from the back.
• Avoid direct eye contact with the hijackers but still try to take in what they are wearing, the sound of their voices, etc.
