Certain stretches of our roads that are known as hotspots, which basically means that one should avoid using it, if possible.
Several roads around Muldersdrift have often been barricaded with stones and huge rocks. Criminals usually do this not only to distract drivers, but also to cause harm to them or their vehicles, and make them an easy target.
Unfortunately, many have fallen victim to this when they stop to remove the obstacles, or if their tyres are spiked and they stop to assess the damage. Sergeant Mulalo Ndou of the Muldersdrift Police said under no circumstances should drivers stop, get out of their vehicles and try to remove the objects on the road. “In most of the cases criminal use this strategy to hijack the unsuspecting drivers’ vehicles and even rob them of their belongings.
Consider the following tips to avoid being hijacked:
• Never pick up strangers along the road.
• Keep the doors and windows of your vehicle locked at all times while driving.
• Don’t use the same road to travel to and from work every time; change your routine and routes to make it difficult for hijackers to target you.
• When in traffic, leave enough space between your car and the car in front of you in case you need to get away.
• Plan your journey and familiarise yourself with local police stations along your route.
Lastly, never stop if your car is spiked; instead drive slowly to the garage, nearest police station or until you are safe to stop so that you can get help. While doing so keep calm, don’t panic, and contact the police on 08600 10111 or by using the my SAPS app.
