It’s a distinctively South African issue, and hijackings are one of the most terrifying crimes committed on our shores. But as methods to contain these thieves evolve, so do the underhand tactics used to carry out these crimes. The SA Police Service (SAPS) have revealed some devious new approaches employed by carjackers.

Devious new methods of hijackings

This comes after the authorities in North West were alerted to a spate of crimes involving “fake traffic officers”. According to the local branches, motorists in Mahikeng have been stung by thugs posing as cops. Once they get their targets to pullover, they proceed to steal the cars with the victim(s) still inside.

“Following a number of carjacking incidents that were recently reported at various clusters within the province, police urge motorists to be cautious when travelling or stopping alongside the roads or when ordered to stop by other motorists as that could be hijacking suspects.” “In some instances, particularly in Mahikeng Cluster, unsuspecting motorists were stopped, robbed of their valuables and their vehicles hijacked by people who pretended to be traffic or police officials. Motorists are requested to be vigilant and to report suspicious persons or vehicles at the nearest police stations.” SAPS statement

How carjackers are operating

Their latest warning comes after they published a series of safety tips for motorists, to help them avoid any potential situations that could turn into a hijacking. However, it seems there are now multiple modus operandi that make life difficult for commuters – and police officers – across the country.

SAPS have highlighted the “fake traffic cops” method as their biggest concern.

However, if you need the toilet on your drive, it’d be better to wait until you find a safe location. Those ‘relieving themselves’ by the roadside have become increasingly vulnerable to hijackings.

Carjackers are also staging “minor accidents” in a bid to get motorists to pull over. They will gently clip the back or side of your car, and ask you to meet them in a layby – in this situation, SAPS advise drivers to insist on sorting the issue at “the nearest police station” and not next to the road.

Tips to avoid hijackings in South Africa

To avoid getting caught up in these hijackings, law enforcement representatives are asking drivers to get a little savvier when they hop behind the wheel. Small changes – such as taking different routes to preferred destinations and letting others know of your driving plans – are being encouraged.

Common sense also comes into play. SAPS believe drivers can reduce their chances of being carjacked if they avoid driving late at night and travel with at least one other person in the car as often as possible. Sadly, this is the reality many motorists are facing on a daily basis.