Truck drivers should not stop on freeways, police have warned.
This comes after an increase of reported truck hijackings in Pretoria.
Police spokesperson Captain Colette Weilbach said two hijackings were reported at the Brooklyn police station in the past week.
Both hijackings had the same modus operandi by distracting truck drivers.
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The first hijacking occurred last week Thursday at about 12:00 at the Rigel Avenue off-ramp on the N1 south.
The second truck was hijacked on Monday at about 13:00 on the N4 freeway close to the N1 off-ramp.
“Both truck drivers reported to police that a passenger in a passing vehicle indicated to them that there was something wrong with the trucks at the back.”
“The drivers stopped next to the road to investigate.”
Weilbach said a white Toyota Corolla with four occupants then hijacked the parked trucks.
The truck drivers were forced into the highjackers’ vehicle and were later dropped off at different locations.
Similar events were also reported at neighbouring stations.
Anyone that can assist the police with information can contact the Brooklyn police station at 012-366-1735/6, or the Crime Stop number at 08600-10111 or SMS crime line 32211 to report crime anonymously.
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Truck drivers are advised to phone the 10111 emergency number immediately if they suspect that they are being followed or if circumstances are suspicious.
Police offered the following advice to truck drivers and companies to prevent hijackings:
– Ensure that the truck is in a good condition. Always inspect trucks before any trips.
– Enforce a “no stop” policy for drivers when possible, especially within two to three hours of the trip origin.
– Avoid stopping at remote places.
– Remember, there is safety in motion. The most dangerous times for hijacking are when a vehicle has stopped.
– Drivers must alternate between routes, where possible.
– Inform the dispatcher of the route and then follow it. If the route changes the driver should inform someone.
– Park in secure areas with ample lighting.
– Only stop in designated rest areas where there are other trucks parked.
– Rather drive to the closest filling station to inspect the truck when motorists indicate that there is something wrong with the truck.
– Where possible truck drivers must take a crew along on their trips.
– Companies are advised to install tracking devices in the trucks.
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