BY BAKANG MOKOTO
NORTH West police warn motorists travelling along N14 and R503 road between Ventersdorp and Coligny to be more cautious after a string of hijacks taking place.

North West Police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said: “We urge motorists to exercise caution when stopping alongside the road or when ordered to stop by other motorists as that could be hijacking suspects.

“This is after a few incidents in which vehicles were recently hijacked by unknown suspects were reported to the police,” Mokgwabone said.

He further said in one of the incidents in August 2017 along the N14 near the Ventersdorp crossing, a driver was stopped by a person who asked for help after an alleged robbery.

Mokgwabone said the driver stopped to help the person and was suddenly pointed with a firearm and forced to drive to Klerksdorp with three suspects (including the person who wanted help, being one of the suspects).

“He was then tied up and placed in the backseat of his vehicle. He was later dropped off on a gravel road near a mine at East-Driefontein. The suspects took his car and personal belongings.

“In another unrelated incident in September 2017 on the N14, close to Coligny a driver was parked close to a garage and approached by a person, asking for directions. Whilst still talking to the man, the driver was suddenly pointed with a firearm by the direction seeker and instructed to drive towards Coligny,” he said.

Mokgwabone said the motorist was robbed of his vehicle and personal belongings and left next to the road.
“Motorists are therefore requested to exercise caution when stopped by unknown persons and to report such incidents to the nearest police station.

As part of curbing such incidents, Mokgwabone said motorists are requested to take heed and apply the following safety hints:

· A well-maintained car is less likely to break down and leave you vulnerable.
· Plan your route and let someone know what your route is and when to expect you at your destination.
· Always check the rear view mirror to see if you are being followed.
· Avoid driving with your windows open and keep the doors locked and put all valuables out of sight.
· Avoid distractions while driving such as using a cellular phone.
· If you suspect you are being followed, drive to your nearest police station or a busy public area.
· When approaching a red traffic light, slow down so that you only reach it when it turns green especially during the night.
· If possible, park in a central, well-lit place, preferably with guards on duty.
· When stopping behind another vehicle, leave half a vehicle length in front so you can make an emergency escape if necessary.
· Avoid driving through unfamiliar areas.

“Avoid driving late at night / early hours of the morning when the roads are quiet. Drive in the centre lane away from pedestrians where possible. If possible, never drive alone. NEVER, EVER pick up hitchhikers or strangers.

“(VERY IMPORTANT)Never follow routine routes when driving; change on a regular basis.If possible, avoid driving in the dark. Hijackers may stage a minor accident, for e.g. If your vehicle is bumped from behind and you do not feel comfortable with the individual involved in the situation, indicate he / she must follow you and drive to the nearest Police Station or any busy public area for help,” he concludes.
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