In South Africa, hijackings have become an alarmingly prevalent crime, leaving motorists feeling vulnerable and anxious. As criminals devise increasingly sophisticated methods to target unsuspecting individuals, petrol stations have emerged as a concerning hotspot for hijacking activity.
These scams often exploit the distractions and vulnerabilities that arise during the refuelling process, catching motorists off guard. The perpetrators capitalize on the momentary lapses in attention, such as when paying at the counter or attending to vehicle maintenance, to execute their hijacking plans.
Understanding the Hijacking Modus Operandi
Hijackers employ various tactics to target motorists at petrol stations. Some common methods include:
Distraction techniques: Hijackers may create distractions to divert the motorist’s attention, allowing them to seize the opportunity to strike. This could involve posing as a friendly individual seeking assistance, feigning an emergency, or creating a commotion to draw the motorist away from their vehicle.
Fake emergencies: Hijackers may stage a fake emergency, such as a car breakdown or a medical crisis, to gain the motorist’s sympathy and lower their guard. Once the motorist is engaged, the hijackers can quickly overpower them and take their vehicle.
Opportunistic approaches: Hijackers may observe motorists’ habits and routines at petrol stations, identifying patterns and potential vulnerabilities to exploit. They may wait for the motorist to become engrossed in refuelling or attending to their vehicle before making their move.
Protecting Yourself at Petrol Stations
In a concerning development, a new hijacking scam known as the “Schoolgirl Hijacking Trick” has emerged, targeting unsuspecting motorists at petrol stations in South Africa. This elaborate scheme exploits the natural tendency to help others, particularly those in distress.
A seemingly innocent schoolgirl, her uniform a guise for deception, approaches a unsuspecting motorist at a petrol station, her eyes brimming with feigned distress. With a voice laced with desperation, she pleads for help, seeking the use of his cell phone to contact her mother, her airtime depleted. The motorist, his heart touched by her plight, willingly extends his trust, unaware of the sinister web he has been drawn into.
In a chilling twist, the “schoolgirl” transforms into a cunning accuser, weaving a web of deceit around the unsuspecting motorist. She weaponizes the new gender-based violence (GBV) or domestic violence act, painting the motorist as a predator, leaving them paralyzed with fear and desperation.
As if emerging from the shadows, a seemingly fake police officer materializes, his presence oozing with menace. With a chilling tone, he proposes a “solution” – a payment of R3,000 to make the nightmare disappear. In some instances, the criminals’ greed knows no bounds, subjecting the motorist to a relentless barrage of demands, extorting ongoing payments to silence the “schoolgirl’s” fabricated accusations.
To mitigate the risk of falling victim to hijacking scams at petrol stations, motorists should adopt the following precautions:
Maintain vigilance: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings throughout your time at the petrol station. Avoid distractions, such as using your phone, and keep an eye on your vehicle and personal belongings.
Limit distractions: Minimize the time you spend outside your vehicle, especially when paying or attending to vehicle maintenance. If possible, ask a trusted companion to accompany you to the petrol station.
Park strategically: Choose a well-lit, secure parking area within close proximity to the entrance and exit points of the petrol station. Avoid parking in secluded or dimly lit areas.
Lock doors and windows: Ensure all doors and windows of your vehicle are securely locked before exiting the vehicle, even for brief periods.
Trust your instincts: If you feel uneasy or notice any suspicious activity, trust your instincts and leave the area immediately. Do not confront or engage with suspicious individuals.
The Role of Recovery Vehicles in Hijacking Scenarios
In the unfortunate event of a hijacking, recovery vehicles play a crucial role in assisting victims and reclaiming stolen vehicles. These specialized vehicles, equipped with advanced tracking technology and manned by experienced professionals, work closely with law enforcement agencies to locate and retrieve stolen vehicles.
Upon receiving a hijacking report, recovery vehicles are immediately deployed to track the stolen vehicle. Utilizing GPS tracking and surveillance techniques, they monitor the vehicle’s movements and relay information to law enforcement.
A Call for Vigilance and Collaborative Efforts
Combating hijacking requires a concerted effort from individuals, law enforcement agencies, and the community as a whole. Motorists must remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures to minimize their vulnerability. Law enforcement agencies should continue to enhance their strategies to apprehend hijackers and disrupt their operations.
Community engagement and awareness campaigns play a vital role in educating the public about hijacking trends, modus operandi, and preventive measures. By fostering a culture of vigilance and collaboration, we can work towards reducing the prevalence of hijackings and restoring a sense of safety on our roads.
