What to do if you are hijacked in SA
Crime statistics released by the South African Police Service earlier in the year showed that cases of hijacking increased significantly.
According to the SAPS, there were over 14,600 reported car hijackings between 2015 and 2016, up 14.3% from 12,770 cases in the prior period.
Statistically, this shows that 40 cars are hijacked every day in South Africa (35 in 2015), or roughly one car every 36 minutes.
The Automobile Association warns that while many South Africans are getting ready to relax and spend quality time with their family and friends, unfortunately, crime doesn’t take a holiday.
So while you are getting ready to have fun and enjoy yourself, it is important that you remember to stay safe and not let your guard down, it said.
The AA provides the following hijacking prevention tips:
Hijacking prevention tips
- Always stay alert and be aware of everything going on around you
- Keep the doors locked at all times
- Always plan your route in advance and try avoid traveling in unfamiliar areas
- When coming to a stop at an intersection, always leave enough space between your vehicle and the one in front of you so you have room to manoeuvre
- Keep bags and other valuable items in the boot and out of sight
- If possible, try avoid from driving alone, especially late at night or early in the morning when it is still dark
- Make sure your car is well maintained and in good working order to prevent you from breaking down
- Ensure that your driveway is well lit and there are no overgrown bushes or trees nearby where criminals could easily hide
- Be aware of any suspicious vehicles or people lurking in your street whenever you leave or come home
- If your property has an electric gate, wait until the gate is open before pulling into the driveway
- Check to make sure you aren’t being followed
- If you think you are being followed, drive to the nearest police station.
What to do if you are hijacked
- Try to remain as calm as possible throughout the incident
- Don’t make eye contact with any of the hijackers
- Don’t antagonise or argue with the hijackers
- Refrain from making any sudden movements and keep your hands where the hijacker can see them
- Contact the police as soon as you are able to and try to provide them with as much information as possible (model, colour and registration of vehicle and any specific details about the hijackers)
- Remember that you and your family are more valuable than anything else. Your vehicle and other possessions can be replaced but not your life.
Read: The worst hijacking hot spots in Joburg, Pretoria, Cape Town and Durban
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