People ‘ignoring warnings about hijacking’
Vosloorus SAPS communication officer Cap Piet Rossouw says he is concerned about the safety of the Vosloorus community following a recent increase in car hijackings.
Speaking during an interview with Kathorus MAIL reporter Aaron Damane at Vosloorus Police Station on February 14, Rossouw said that people are not listening.
He said the police have done everything in their power to warn people against hijacking. “But people are turning a deaf ear to all the warnings,” he said.
“We have been to different media houses, including Kathorus MAIL, giving tips against hijacking. It is sad to learn that people are still doing exactly what they are told not to do – parking their cars in an unsafe places at night without observing what is happening around them.”
Rossouw said the above-mentioned is the most common blunder reported by people who come to the police station after being caught ‘napping’ by hijackers.
“If people can listen to all the warnings and start to be vigilant, we wouldn’t be talking about an increase in hijacking.”
Rossouw described hijacking as a serious and violent crime that can lead to emotional breakdowns. “It can affect one’s relationship at home with one’s spouse.”
Rossouw reiterated the most important things one should do to avoid being hijacked. These are as follows:
• Do not enter your garage or parking area if you believe you are being followed. Drive to the nearest police station.
• Do not stop if, for example, a passer-by indicates that your car has a flat tyre or other defect. Drive to the nearest service station or safe area and check it there. It is a good idea to keep in your car a product that temporarily seals any puncture and inflates the tyre.
• Do not tell strangers of your movements and/or plans.
• Do not pick up hitchhikers or unknown passengers.
• Do not leave your car door open and the engine running while opening your garage door or gates – criminals can act faster than you expect.
• Do not be distracted by people handing out flyers at intersections, or buy items such as flowers, newspapers or cold drinks from unfamiliar vendors.
Rossouw said the police can fight this crime effectively only if community members help the police in identifying the criminals.
He concluded by appealing to the community to pay attention and adhere to the police warnings and advice against hijacking.
