RECENT carjacking incidents have rattled the residents of Montclair, prompting swift police action to curb the surge in vehicle thefts.

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The brazen attacks, often targeting motorists at shopping malls and driveways, have left many shaken and their vehicles snatched by the audacious perpetrators.

In one harrowing account, a victim, preferring anonymity out of fear, recounted how armed assailants accosted his wife along Montclair Air Road, forcibly seizing the vehicle keys before absconding with their car, leaving her stranded.

Prompt police intervention led to the vehicle’s recovery the same day in Umlazi, underscoring the authorities’ commitment to combating such crimes.

“She was not hurt during the hijacking ordeal,” he said.

Another chilling incident unfolded as a parent was ambushed while unloading their children at their Woodlands residence. Confronted by three armed individuals demanding car keys, the victim was left defenseless, emphasising the ruthlessness of these criminals.

Carmen Rhynes, eThekwini District police spokesperson, issued a stern warning against confronting carjackers, and emphasised that prioritising safety is crucial. She urged vigilance, advising motorists to maintain awareness of their surroundings and avoid engaging in distractions that could make them vulnerable targets.

“As best you can, recollect the description of the suspects, vehicle and the direction of their travel and relay the information to the 10111 operator,” said Rhynes,

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Rhynes stressed the importance of community collaboration in crime prevention, calling upon teachers, mentors and faith leaders to join forces in fostering a culture of safety and vigilance.

“Criminals are not looking for a challenge. They want an easy mark that doesn’t place them at undue risk of harm or apprehension,” she said.

For those who fall victims to carjacking, Rhynes offered practical advice: Prioritise personal safety, cooperate with perpetrators and promptly alert authorities with as much descriptive information as possible.

She said with collective effort and heightened awareness, communities can fortify themselves against the scourge of carjacking and reclaim their sense of security on the streets.

Follow these safety hints:
• Give up your car and leave the scene – do not fight or resist – carjackers operate in twos and threes and are always armed.
• Avoid verbal and physical altercations.
• Take note of the carjackers and vehicle’s description.
• If there’s a child in the car, tell the carjacker “My child is in the car.”
• Call 10111 immediately when you get the opportunity.
• Do not wait in your car in the driveway of your home or at your gate for it to open. Be alert when approaching your home.
• Keep your cellphone in your pocket, rather than in the car.
• Be aware of a driver slowing down or stopping as it could be a sign of an attempted carjacking.
• Ensure that your mobile phone is fully charged and that you have sufficient airtime when travelling.
• When picking up your children from school, the mall, sports or recreational events, be on high alert to ensure you are waiting in a safe space.
• Don’t talk or text on your mobile phone when travelling.
• Always drive with all doors locked and windows rolled up.
• When stopping at an intersection or traffic light, be observant of the pedestrians as they could be hijackers.
• Don’t wind your window down to give money to beggars or purchase novelties at an intersection or stop street.
• Don’t give lifts to strangers.
• Don‘t leave your valuables, such as handbags, wallet, mobile phone and laptop in plain sight inside your vehicle in case of smash and grab.
• Allow yourself room in traffic to move around other cars and avoid getting ‘boxed in’.
• Do not leave your car running to quickly run into the shop or to close the gate at your home, etc.
• Be aware of ‘bump and rob’ style offences, where a car containing at least two occupants lightly rear-ends or bumps your vehicle.

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