Attempted hijacking and new modus operandi reuealed as criminals close in on Plett
A close call for a local motorist and strange incidents in the night have left local crime fighters concerned – YOLANDE STANDER reports
LISA Nagel of Plett Watch said there had been at least three concerning incidents in Plett over the past week and therefore urged residents to be vigilant. According to her, one of these incidents happened on Wednesday, August 14.
“Early in the morning a woman had a nasty surprise when she stopped at the Robberg and Airport Road intersection,” Nagel said.
She explained that three suspects jumped out of a nearby vehicle and surrounded the local woman’s car. They attempted to open the vehicle’s doors.
“Fortunately her doors were locked and she drove ofT hastily. She reported the matter to the police along with a description of the suspect’s vehicle.”
Nagel further said that on August 12, a resident was woken up by a sound on their roof. “They called out their security company who inspected the premises and found all in order.”
She added that when they woke up the next morning, they contacted someone to inspect the roof and found a lemon on the roof. “The roof is too high for anything to have fallen off a tree onto it, so it had to have been thrown.”
Nagel said this might be a tactic by criminals to ascertain if the property was occupied or not.
“Upon hearing the noise, the owner immediately switched on lights which would have alerted a potential thief that the home was occupied.”
She added that a domestic worker recently informed her employer that burglars had started using this ploy to mark potential targets.
“They watch to see if it (the object) gets removed. If not, they know that the house does not have a worker servicing it or that the homeowner is away. They then target the property.”
Nagel urged residents to react to any noise on their properties by switching lights on immediately and then to contact their security company. “The lights will deter criminals from carrying out their nefarious deeds if they know you are aware of their presence.”
She also urged residents to be aware of any objects on their properties that seem out of place.
Nagel further said motorists should ensure that their
vehicle’s doors are locked after entering and that their valuables are out of sight.
“Never stop too close to the vehicle in front of you – leave an escape route to prevent being blocked in by a vehicle behind you.”
She advised that if a gun is pointed at you, you should put your hands in the air and give in to the suspect’s demands. “Do not make sudden movements or reach for anything, as this could cost you your life.”