How to deal with a kidnapping

What to remember when going through a kidnapping as the victim and the family of the victim.
Unfortunately, there are certain traumatic experiences some won’t be able to avoid and the nightmare of being kidnapped can become a reality.

A horrific thought to make peace with, but there are ways to maximise the possibility of the kidnapped victim returning home. The police provided potentially life-saving information if one was to ever find themselves in such a situation.

The police shared the following kidnapping tips and information:

What to do when being kidnapped

• Co-operate with your kidnappers to avoid injuries
• Do not argue with or lie to the kidnappers
• Avoid eye contact with the kidnappers and be submissive
• If possible, try and remember the road you were on when kidnapped and directions you went in
• Eat whatever is given to you to uphold your strength
• Try to keep track of time by marking days or hours as you perceive it, this will help you to remain calm and orientated.

What to do when someone close to you has been kidnapped

• Although you will be informed not to contact the police, the first thing you need to do is report the kidnapping and all its details to your nearest police station
• Do not argue with kidnappers while talking to them
• Avoid agreeing to any ransom being made by the kidnappers
• If possible, try to speak to the person who is kidnapped every time whenever the kidnappers contact you
• If possible, record all phone calls between you and the kidnappers
• Make notes of all the demands to ensure you remember them correctly.

What will be needed when reporting the incident to the police

• A clear and recent photo of the hostage/victim
• Description of the last clothing the victim was seen in
• Details of any medication the victim may be on may be required
• The contact numbers of the victim
• If possible, the contact number/details used by kidnappers.

How the family of the victim should deal with the kidnappers

• Stay calm, and avoid arguing, lying and agree to any ransom
• Confirm if the victim is safe and unhurt
• Is it advisable to comply with the demands of the kidnappers
• It is advisable to acknowledge the demands and relate them back to the kidnappers to ensure correctness
• Do not go to the media or post details of the incident on social media
• Do not threaten the kidnappers.