HIJACKING PREVENTION
Rising unemployment rates, inflation and the volatile economic climate inevitably leads to a rise in crime statistics. It is unfortunate that we must adjust our lifestyles accordingly, but it is pertinent that one focuses on being resilient and alert to prevent becoming a victim of crime related events.
According to data published by the SAPS, there is a vehicle hijacked in South Africa every 25 minutes. Within the first three months of 2022, a total of 5402 hijackings were recorded, majority of them in the main metropolitan areas of SA (Ref: Crime Stats SA Q4 2021/2022)
According to Netstar, the most common method used by criminals remains the use of key re-programmers and signal grabbers and the use of special equipment to create a long-range link between your key and the vehicle. Vehicles that start with buttons are more prone to be targeted as criminals are advancing their methods using newer technology to steal the vehicles. Netstar also highlighted that these vehicles are also designed to unlock when you approach it, reading the sensor on the key when it reaches within range of the vehicle and unlocking without being prompted.
Criminals are still using the conventional methods to steal vehicles, but Netstar reports on additional methods to be cognisant of:
- “Police hijacking”/Blue light gang activity- This is where criminals pose as law enforcement officers.
- The classic numberplate- The criminals remove your number plate while you are parked, wait for you to enter your car and drive off, they will then follow you, drive up next to you and show you the plate. Upon stopping, they use the opportunity to hijack you.
- The forced accident- They stage an incident and force bump you to get you to stop and inspect the damage upon which they hijack you.
- The flat tyre jack- They drive next to you and indicate that you have a flat tyre; when you stop to check, they hijack you.
- Netstar reported that the most preferred method of hijacking a person’s car is by making use of a hostage situation at gunpoint. They continue the journey with the hostage in the vehicle until they locate the tracking unit. Once the recovery company responds to check on their client, the perpetrator forces their victim to give the tracking company an all-ok response.
Mid-level sedans and luxury SUVs are the most prevalent targets with cars such as Mini’s being the least targeted, said Netstar. Public spaces such as malls, gyms, sport events and other high traffic areas seem to be the easiest target areas for hijackers and remote jammers. ATM withdrawals or intended ATM transactions also pose a high risk to becoming victim to hijackings.
Herewith some insightful tips to stay safe and prevent a possible hijacking as provided by Netstar:
- “Be aware of similar vehicles: Hijackings are often well planned. The target is followed for days before the incident; therefore, take note if you see the same vehicles popping up on your daily travels.
- Consider time: Always be aware and alert of your surroundings, especially when pulling into driveways and when idling at a traffic light. We generally find that the hijacking peak occurs late in the evening when people may be returning home from work and are tired and relaxed.
- Don’t just drive into your driveway: Be cognisant of what vehicles are around you, and if a vehicle has been taking the same turns as you, do not just drive into your driveway.
- Keep moving: Try to have someone open a gate for you if it is not electric, and if it is, try to open it for the minimum time possible with the least stationary time in your vehicle.
- Report: Always report any suspicious activity immediately to your local neighbourhood watch or security company.”