Be aware of these crime trends
A new crime trend has emerged and residents are urged to be vigilant.
Hijacking: New trends
According to Fidelity ADT, a new trend is emerging this year. It has warned of a new tactic where motorists are targeted while purchasing food at drive-thru restaurants.
Charnel Hattingh, head of marketing and communications at Fidelity ADT, said: “We are starting to see an alarming trend where criminals target unknowing customers at drive-thru establishments. Usually, as you approach the front of the line, armed suspects emerge from the car in front of you to attempt to take over your car.
Hattingh said there are usually two cars involved – one in front and the vehicle behind you that blocks in your car when you try to reverse.
“Drivers must be alert and aware of their surroundings. People tend to relax while queuing, often distracted by the task at hand and excited children.
“Remember, as we get closer to the holiday season, this type of opportunistic crime will unfortunately increase. Remain vigilant at all times and avoid taking unnecessary risks.”
Fidelity ADT advises these safety precautions:
• Keep your bag in the trunk and your cash and credit card nearby for quick payment.
• Use only a well-trafficked drive-thru and avoid retail establishments that are dimly lit or isolated at night.
• Try to order food only during peak hours when demand is at its highest.
• Close all windows and doors while you wait for your order.
• Avoid taking children to the drive-thru, if possible, because they can be distracting.
• While you are waiting, check your mirrors and avoid being distracted by music or cellphones.
• If you suspect you are the victim of a hijacking, start hooting several times. In general, hijackers dislike that kind of attention that attracts interest.
• If you have children, always seat the eldest child behind the driver and the younger child to the left in the back seat.
• If you are hijacked while your children are in the car, get out of the vehicle slowly and move to the back door directly behind the driver’s door. Place one foot firmly in the car, on the floor behind the driver’s seat, as you lean across to retrieve the youngest child. The eldest child will probably cling to you and you can get both children out of the car at once.
Remember to stay as calm as possible.
Cellphone snatching: New trends
Fidelity ADT has warned of an increase in pedestrians being targeted while waiting for an e-hailing service or public transportation to and from work.
Charnel Hattingh said cellphone snatching occurs at any time of day, whether people are dining at a restaurant and leaving their cellphone on the table or waiting outside on the pavement for an e-hailing service.
“I urge everyone not to become complacent. We’ve noticed a resurgence of criminals driving around pretending to be e-hailing services, looking for opportunities to commit a crime.
“These criminals will pose as e-hailing drivers and prey on unsuspecting victims. We’re urging residents to be cautious,” Hattingh said.
Hattingh urged residents to make sure they know the load-shedding roster so they can plan their walk to a specific destination. Don’t walk with earphones listening to music and, if possible, walk with someone to make you feel less vulnerable. Hide valuables or cellphones in your bag or inside your jacket pocket.
She also urged victims of attempted phone snatchings to report the incident, even if it was only a ruse.
“Keep in mind that criminals are usually nervous and under pressure, so they can make mistakes. It is preferable to give them what they want and avoid injury.
“The same message must be communicated to your children so that everyone understands the rules,” Hattingh said.
SOURCES:
Mahamba, C. 2022. Beware! Cellphone snatching increased across Johannesburg. Accessed: 2022/11/27.
New Hijackimg trends to look out for in South Africa. Accessed: 2022/11/27.
