How to react in a hijacking situation

If you are confronted by hijackers, the aim is to survive the crime. Accept that you are going to lose your vehicle, property can be replaced but lives cannot. Keep calm, do not threaten or challenge the hijacker. Do exactly as they ask. Surrender your vehicle and move away.

Do not reach for your valuables as this may threaten the hijackers. Leave everything in the vehicle and remember that they are just as nervous as you, if not more, and thus dangerous.

Answer any questions truthfully, especially with regards to firearms. If a hijacker finds out or suspects that you are lying, they are more likely to become violent. Try to listen and understand what they want from you, and do not show signs of aggression. Keep your hands still and visible to the hijacker, give them the assurance that you do not intend to fight back. If you do move, do so slowly.

When requested to give over your keys, do not throw them away. Comply with the request.

Gather as much information as you possibly can without posing a threat. Note how many hijackers there are, what they are wearing, their age, and any facial and physical features. Do not stare at them and make it obvious that you are looking to find ways to identify them.

If you have a pet or child in the backseat, they might not notice. Tell the hijackers.

Phone the police immediately after the hijackers have left the scene. Make sure you gather information on the get-away vehicle, if the hijackers are using any. Know the full description and registration number of your vehicle.

If you lost personal belongings that make it possible to access your bank account, remember to stop your accounts. Blacklist your cellphone, know your IMEI number. Report your ID as stolen and change the locks to any keys that have been taken…

Source

South Africa Today – South Africa News