Staff Reporter
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape is urging motorists to remain vigilant and adopt simple but effective safety measures to reduce the risk of vehicle hijackings.
Police Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said hijackings can occur unexpectedly.
He highlighted that motorists are particularly vulnerable when approaching their homes, stopping at intersections or traffic lights, or travelling through isolated areas.
Litabe reminded motorists that “your vehicle can be replaced, but your life cannot. Stay alert, remain vigilant and always prioritise your safety.”
Motorists are encouraged to:
- Stay alert, particularly when approaching their homes, driveways and gates.
- Check their surroundings before entering a driveway or opening a gate.
- Keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed while driving.
- Avoid displaying valuables or leaving vehicles running unattended.
- Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles, particularly when approaching intersections and traffic lights.
- If you suspect that you are being followed, do not drive home. Instead, proceed to the nearest police station or a busy, well-lit public area.
- Avoid isolated routes and refrain from giving lifts to strangers.
- Where possible, vary travel routes and routines.
- Keep vehicle keys secure and ensure that driveways, entrances and surrounding areas are adequately lit.
- Parents and guardians should teach children not to open vehicle doors or windows for strangers.
- If confronted by armed suspects, remain calm. Avoid sudden movements, do not resist unnecessarily and comply with reasonable demands. Your safety and that of your passengers is more important than any vehicle or property.
- Following a hijacking, move to a safe location and report the incident to the police as soon as possible.
- When reporting the crime, provide as much information as possible, including the vehicle’s registration number, make, model and colour, the direction in which the suspects travelled, and descriptions of the suspects and their vehicle, where possible.
The SAPS in the Northern Cape vowed to remain committed to combating vehicle-related crime through high-density operations, visible policing, crime prevention initiatives, intelligence-driven operations and partnerships with communities and other stakeholders.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activity to their nearest police station, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or alternatively via the MySAPS App.
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