MONTCLAIR police wish to urge motorists and members of the community about the concerning rise of carjacking incidents happening in and around the Montclair policing precinct recently.
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Montclair police spokesperson, captain Derek Vijiam, noted the South Coast road off-ramp to Himalayas Road, Halifax traffic circle in Montclair and Pendlebury Road as some of the main hot-spots for this crime. Carjacking is a common form of auto theft crime which is a type of robbery that involves a motor vehicle being taken directly from the owner or driver of the car. “This is one crime that has been on the rise of late. Some of these incidents have been very violent with assault of victims and the use of firearms in conducting the crime. On behalf of the station, I cannot stress enough how important it is for motorists to be vigilant at all times when on the road, especially at the hot-spots mentioned.
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“There are a number of things that make your vehicle attractive to thieves, including make, model and the value of certain parts. Know that it’s not always the most valuable, the flashiest or the most expensive car makes and models that are most desirable. So whatever your car, don’t make it convenient for would-be criminals to approach you,” he explained.
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In a mission to lower the levels of carjacking, Vijiam further advises motorists to keep their doors locked and windows shut anytime they are not in their vehicle car or when stationary at a traffic light. “Park in secure highly trafficked and well-lit areas and pay special attention to people who seem to be lurking or cars that suspiciously follow you into driveways or isolated areas. Having your vehicle stolen is bad enough, but carjacking, having it taken while you’re behind the wheel is potentially dangerous and even fatal,” warned Vijiam.
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