Krugersdorp Police are concerned about the increasing number of hijackings, especially on the N14, R28, R563 and R24 roads.
Krugersdorp Police spokesperson, Captain Raymond Sebonyane said that in the past week several cases were reported.
“In some of the cases the victims were hijacked at stop signs during the night,” he warned.
They appeal to the community to be extra careful even during this time of the pandemic.
“There is no slowing down for South African Police Service members; we still have to ensure that those who want to enrich themselves by harming and stealing from others are prevented from doing so.”
The police shared these safety tips:
• Avoid stopping in remote areas.
• Limit your night trips or at least take someone along with you.
• If strangers are loitering near or in your driveway, rather drive past first.
• If something seems suspicious, do not talk to strangers; rather be rude and drive away.
• Vary the route you travel to and from work if possible.
• Consider using a lift club instead of travelling alone.
• If approached by a stranger while in your car, drive off immediately if possible, or sound the hooter to draw attention.
• Do not give hitchhikers a lift.
• Consider installing an electric gate.
• Do not stop if someone signals that you have a flat tyre or there is something wrong on your vehicle. Rather drive to a safe place like a filling station or to the nearest police station.
Krugersdorp Police station commander, Brigadier Mashao encouraged the community to work hand in hand with the police and also be part of their local Community Policing Forum (CPF) or neighbourhood watch.
He added that second-hand car dealers and the community must refrain from buying vehicles without proof of purchase or stolen property. It is a punishable offence to buy stolen property.
The Krugersdorp Police can be contacted on 011 951 1151, 011 951 1152 or the officer on duty can be contacted on 082 337 1293. To report crime anonymously contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, the SMS line on 32211 or communicate via the My SAPS app.
