MPUMALANGA –The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) in Mpumalanga is concerned about hijacking incidents which are alarming throughout the Province.
The Hawks is therefore reiterating about what is always said on hijacking prevention. Drivers are cautioned to take heed of the following:
Before leaving your house or undertaking a journey ensure that everything in your vehicle is in adequate conditions to avoid being stuck on the road. Prepare for your journey, know the direction and destination of where you are going. Ensure that before driving off, all windows and doors are properly locked. Have the contact numbers of the police stations, emergency services, family members, neighbours, colleagues or any other numbers which you can call in the stage of predicaments.
Do not pick up hitchhikers or strangers on the road. While driving, check rear-view mirror to ensure you are not being followed. When you see a suspicious vehicle following you, alert the police with information about the vehicle, model, colour, registration numbers, and number of occupants if possible and proper direction or you can drive to the nearest police station.
Ensure that while approaching traffic lights or stop signs, allow adequate space between you and the vehicle in front of you. Do not entertain the stranger who would hoot or try to stop you while driving especially at night. You rather let them follow you while driving straight to the police station.
Do not park on the side of the road to refresh or relieve yourself, you better stop at the service station.
When approaching your vehicle at the parking area and see a suspicious vehicle/ persons next to your vehicle, do not approach, you rather report the matter to the police or security officers for help.
When approaching your driveway, be on the lookout for suspicious vehicles/persons. This is very important as the majority of hijackers approach their victims in home driveways.
IN THE CASE OF A HIJACKING IN PROGRESS:
Remember, that your life is worth more than your vehicle
Do not antagonise or aggravate the hijacker(s).
Do not resist.
Avoid making eye contact – the hijacker may perceive this as a threat.
Leave the engine running and exit the vehicle.
Try to put as much space between you and the hijacker(s).
Remain calm and try to take note of as many details of the hijacker(s) as possible.
Keep your cellphone in your body as the hijacker cannot allow you to take the cellphone.
Let us fight this crime together by sharing this information with people around us. Together we can do more.

Source: South African Police Service