by Hijacking is a reality in South Africa and many live in fear of the day it might happen to them. Richard and Melinda Rossouw, of the National Hijack Prevention Academy (NHPA), provide insight into certain avoidances and protection strategies that could prove invaluable in your time of need.
NHPA provides driver training modules, such as Collision Avoidance / Skidpan and Defensive Driving.
These modules are available online here and provide information about avoiding hijacking or getting through a hijacking safely.
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So, What Do You Do If You Are a Victim Of a Hijacking?
One of the most important things to remember in an armed hijacking is to immediately drop to the ground, remain still, and obey the orders of the leader. If confronted:
- Do not lose your temper, threaten, or challenge the hijacker.
- Do exactly as told by the hijackers.
- Do not resist, especially if the hijacker has a weapon. Surrender your vehicle and move away. Try to put as much distance between yourself and the hijacker(s) as speedily as possible.
- Do not reach for your purse or valuables. Leave everything in the vehicle.
- Try to remain calm at all times and do not show signs of aggression.
- Be compliant to all demands set by the perpetrator.
- Do not make eye contact with the hijacker. He may perceive this behavior as a threat and retaliate aggressively.
- Keep your hands still and visible to the hijacker, so as to give him assurance of your passive content.
- Do not speak too fast (if you are able to talk), and do not make sudden movements.
- Gather as much information as possible without posing a threat.
- How many people?
- How many firearms and description thereof?
- What were the perpetrators wearing (clothing)?To which direction did they drive off?
- Take note of the language they use (the accent).
- First phone the SA Police Service on 08600 10111. They will dispatch the medical services if needed. Other emergency numbers you could phone are 112 ANY Network (Vodacom+MTN+Cell C) or 147 (Vodacom only).
- Activate the vehicle tracking device, if the vehicle is fitted with one.
Most Hijacked Cars In SA
Vehicle tracking company Ctrack has released it hijacking and crime statistics, which shows the most targeted passenger vehicles, SUVs, trucks, and vehicle manufacturers in South Africa. Ctrack based the report on data and analytics collected from January through December 2016.
Passenger Vehicle:
- 1st – Volkswagen (Model: Polo)
- 2nd – Toyota
- 3rd – Ford
SUV:
- 1st – Toyota (Model: Fortuner)
- 2nd – Landrover
- 3rd – Nissan
Truck:
- 1st – Nissan (Model: Not provided)
- 2nd – Scania
- 3rd – Freithliner
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