West resident warned of rising hijackings

The Pretoria West police have urged motorists to avoid isolated areas in the area, especially at night.

Lieutenant-Colonel Godfrey Zwane said most hijackings happened behind red robots or stop streets.

“We are pleading with the community to be vigilant before stopping and for drivers to avoid driving with windows down because this gives hijackers an advantage,” he said.

“We ask motorists to assist the police by ensuring that their windows and doors are closed or locked.”

He warned Tshwane University of Technology students against camping out with their partners late at night near the graveyard in Philp Nel.

“Criminals are watching and targeting such places since there is no visible street light around that area. Even during the day, students and people must avoid using the graveyard as a shortcut. Rather use the long road than be a victim.”

He gave the following survival tips for hostage and hijacking victims;

· You will experience anxiety, shock, disbelief and confusion.
· Resist the urge to resist or retaliate as this could have fatal consequences.
· Prepare to be alone and isolated from your family, friends or loved ones and to lose track of time and place.
· The perpetrators could be tense, anxious and nervous.
· They could display a tendency to overreact.

What to do;

· Do everything the perpetrators tell you to
· Try to maintain pride, dignity and self-respect
· Keep your mind active by playing games in your mind, daydreaming and reading whatever you are offered
· Maintain your strength by eating whatever food your captor(s) offer
· Try to remain calm and cool
· Fall flat and remain down during the attack
· Allow yourself to be led

What not to do;

· At any time become panic stricken or hysterical
· Offer any form of resistance
· Become abusive and aggressive or lose your temper
· Threaten or provoke the captor(s)
· Engage in an argument with the captors
· Try to be a hero
· Engage in any whispered conversation with the perpetrators
· Make any demands
· Try to escape, as this could place you at risk
· Be sympathetic towards your captor’s cause

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