The Magaliesburg Police want to make road users aware of hijackings being committed in the area and warn them to be careful.
In a statement from Sergeant Kgomotso Mogwere from the Magaliesburg Police Corporate Communications they said they have noted with great concern that vehicle hijacking cases around Magaliesburg have been reported with them every month.
“Vehicle hijackings affect victims emotionally, economically and sometimes physically as they are kidnapped and assaulted.”
Also read: Police warn of increasing number of hijackings in West Rand District
He highlighted the following hotspot areas:
• R24-Rustenburg Road
• R509-Koster Road
• Maropeng Road near Orient Hills informal settlement
Mogwere explained some of the methods hijackers use:
• They allegedly use blue lights to lure drivers to stop
• They drive behind their target, flash the lights, overtake and indicate to the driver that something is wrong with his or her vehicle
• When drivers stop, they become the victims of hijackers
If you suspect that you might become a target, police suggest you do the following:
• Contact the police immediately
• Stop at the nearest police station or filling station
Also read: VIDEO: Victim of failed hijacking in Chamdor tells her story
Some additional tips from the Magaliesburg Police:
• Do not drive with your windows open. Keep your vehicle doors and windows locked at all times
• If you are driving a truck, stop only in designated areas where other trucks are parked
• Do not stop to help motorists in trouble, rather call for assistance. You may fall into hijackers’ trap
• Do not drive over cardboard boxes or plastic bags in the middle of the road. There could be rocks or cement in them that will damage your vehicle and force you to pull over, putting yourself at risk of being ambushed
• Do not stop to rest or eat on the side of deserted roads
• Do not park on the side of a quiet road or street to chat to people in your vehicle
• Do not leave your vehicle unattended at a filling station
• If you sense that you are in danger, hit the button on your tracking device, if you have one
The public are urged to report crime immediately by contacting the Magaliesburg Police on 014 577 5136 or 014 577 5137; use the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111; or SMS 32211 and remain anonymous.
