The number of driver hijackings in South Africa decreased in the fourth quarter of 2022/2023, according to crime statistics released by the South African Police Service. There were 5,119 driver hijackings reported in the fourth quarter, down from 5,608 in the third quarter.
This is a positive trend, but it still means that approximately 60 drivers are hijacked every day. Eugene Herbert, CEO of MasterDrive, a road safety training company, says that while the decrease is encouraging, it is not enough.
“Every decrease is an important victory in creating safer roads for drivers,” Herbert said. “But are we, however, satisfied that more than a busload of people are hijacked every day, often in a traumatic and violent manner and which has financial implications in an economy already hard struck by challenges?”
Herbert says that there are a number of things that can be done to reduce driver hijackings, including:
- Increased police patrols in high-risk areas
- Better education for drivers about how to prevent hijackings
- Harsher penalties for those who commit hijackings
He also says that drivers themselves can take steps to protect themselves, such as:
- Being aware of their surroundings and driving defensively
- Avoiding driving alone at night
- Not carrying valuables in their car
- Reporting any suspicious activity to the police
While the decrease in driver hijackings is a positive trend, it is clear that more needs to be done to make roads safer in South Africa. Drivers can play their part by being aware of the risks and taking steps to protect themselves.
How to Avoid Driver Hijackings
In addition to the tips mentioned by Eugene Herbert, there are a few other things you can do to avoid driver hijackings:
- Avoid driving in high-crime areas, especially at night.
- If you must drive in a high-crime area, be sure to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
- Do not drive with valuables in plain sight.
- If you are stopped by someone who appears to be a hijacker, do not resist. Comply with their demands and do not make any sudden movements.
- If you are able to, try to memorize the license plate number of the vehicle and the description of the hijackers.
- Report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.
By following these tips, you can help to reduce your risk of being hijacked.
