![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/40/2016/03/hijacking-2.jpg)
DRIVERS travelling through Jacobs and Merebank (Navy) are urged to be vigilant as there has been an increase of carjacking in the areas.
Wentworth SAPS communication officer, Lt Mabaso Gumede revealed a new modus operandi carjackers have adopted. “They monitor the time owners arrive to open their business premises. They will approach the victim from behind, produce a firearm and threaten them,” he said. Police urge drivers to be vigilant, ensure they are not being followed and do not stop until they feel safe.
A concern for police is many drivers are caught unaware by hijackers as they wait in their vehicles for their gates to open. “Rather contact someone at home to open the gate and before driving in, look around for any suspicious people walking around before driving through,” said Lt Gumede. Hijacking often occur early in the morning between 6am and 8am and in the afternoon and evening between 4pm and 10pm. Police have increased their patrols in the areas and community are asked to attend community police forum (CPF) meetings in order to discuss issues pertaining to crime.
The neighbourhood watch as well as street committees can play a huge role in fighting crime. “Crime affects all of us in one way or the other, let us fight crime together,” added lt Gumede.
Report crime to the following numbers: Wentworth SAPS on 031-4516240/41/42 or crime stop 0860010111 or 10111. Anonymity is guaranteed.