After several hijacking incidents in the North West Province, police have issued a warning for motorists to be extra vigilant in the Bojanala Platinum District.
In a statement police warned drivers to exercise caution if they stop next to the road, or flagged down by potential hijackers.
Three recent hijackings in the area have placed police on high alert. In the first incident, a 39-year-old tuck shop owner was driving from Klerksdorp near Kanana at 3.30pm after purchasing stock, when he was stopped on a bridge. Two men alighted from a black Volkswagen Polo parked next to the road and allegedly pointed firearms at him. The driver managed to flee when the suspects pulled him out of the vehicle, but they stole his Nissan van with all his stock.
In the second incident, a 55-year-old man was driving a white Mazda Drifter in Boitekong on 22 July when two males approached him at the Engen Garage. They asked the driver to assist them with loading fire wood nearby, to which he agreed for a fee. As they drove the area, the driver was attacked and robbed of his pistol with eight rounds, two cell phones and money. He was then tied to a tree, and his white Mazda Drifter was stolen.
The final incident happened on Friday, 23 July when a 38-year-old woman driving from Oukasie Location to Brits to fetch her husband stopped her vehicle and was approached by three men. They pointed firearms at her, pulled her out of the car and drove off in it.
Police told motorists to report incidents immediately and if they are stopped by traffic officials and feel unsafe or threatened, to put on your hazard lights and slowly drive to the nearest police station.
As part of curbing such incidents, motorists are requested to take heed and apply the following safety hints:
- A well-maintained car is less likely to break down and leave you vulnerable.
- Plan your route and let someone know what your route is and when to expect you at your destination.
- Always check the rear view mirror to see if you are being followed.
- Avoid driving with your windows open and keep the doors locked and put all valuables out of sight.
- Avoid distractions while driving such as using a cell phone.
- If you suspect you are being followed, drive to your nearest police station or a busy public area.
- When approaching a red traffic light, slow down so that you only reach it when it turns green especially during the night.
- If possible, park in a central, well-lit place, preferably with guards on duty.
- When stopping behind another vehicle, leave half a vehicle length in front so you can make an emergency escape if necessary.
- Avoid driving through unfamiliar areas.
- Avoid driving late at night / early hours of the morning when the roads are quiet.
- Drive in the centre lane away from pedestrians where possible.
- If possible, never drive alone.
- Never follow routine routes when driving; change on a regular basis.
- If possible, avoid driving in the dark.
- Hijackers may stage a minor accident, for e.g. If your vehicle is bumped from behind and you do not feel comfortable with the individual involved in the situation, indicate he / she must follow you and drive to the nearest Police Station or any busy public area for help.
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