HOW TO: Avoid being a victim of carjacking – police provide safety tips

A 24-year-old man was shot during a carjacking incident in Section Six, Madadeni on July 26.
Spokesman for Newcastle SAPS, Captain Jabulani Ncube said a case of carjacking was being investigated by members of Madadeni SAPS.

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“The complainant said he went to drop his friend off at home, when he was approached by two men who simply opened the driver’s door and demanded the car. One of them then fired a shot and seriously injured the victim. The suspects then fled the scene in the victim’s vehicle.”
No arrests have been made yet and investigations continue.

How to avoid being a victim of carjacking:

– Ensure your vehicle is in roadworthy condition before traveling long distances.
– Ensure you have sufficient fuel in the vehicle’s fuel tank.
– Lock your vehicle’s doors and keep the windows closed at all times.
– Do not leave your vehicle unlocked.
– Avoid stopping at remote places.
– Park your vehicle in well-lit areas.
– If a stranger wants to talk to you while you’re in your vehicle, do not open the window fully.
– If someone seems suspicious, rather drive away.
– Limit your trips at night or at least take someone along with you.
– Vary the route you travel to work and back if possible.

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– If approached by a stranger while in your car, drive off or press your hooter to attract attention.
– If strangers loiter around your driveway or entrance, rather drive on. If they are there for a long time, report it to your nearest police station.
– Carjackers may stage a minor accident so they can approach you and your car. If your car is bumped from behind and you do not feel comfortable, drive to the nearest police station for help.
– Do not reach for your purse or valuables if you are in a hijacking situation. Leave everything behind – your life is more valuable than your possessions.
– Do not resist, especially if the thief has a weapon; give up your vehicle with no questions asked and move away from it.
– A lift club limits the risk of becoming a victim of crime.
– Do not give strangers a lift.
– A gear lock is an affordable and a very effective anti-theft device.
– If possible, put up a mirror against the front wall of your garage to see if someone is following you into the garage.
– Do not open your garage doors before your driveway gates have closed.

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