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Quick-reacting Joburg Uber driver saves passengers from hijackers

Alberton - An Uber driver saved his passengers from a possible hijacking/robbery in Alberton, Johannesburg.

Crime Intelligence & Community Awareness (CICA) posted a video showing an Uber driver dropping off passengers in Alberton, Johannesburg South.

As the vehicle doors opens, a BMW pulls up alongside them. A passenger exits the BMW and moves towards the Uber driver's vehicle.

Thankfully, the Uber driver's quick reactions saw him leave the scene before anything bad could happen.

CICA says: "The Uber driver saved his passengers from potential armed robbery or hijacking by practicing situational awareness. He was obviously watching his mirrors and kept the vehicle ready to go."

Arrive Alive's Johan Jonck commented on the incident: 

"Credit to the Uber driver who was very alert. It would have been more difficult had the hijackers blocked the Uber car more by parking right in front of the vehicle without allowing any get-away space.

"Drivers should always keep in mind who is following them and what the surroundings are.

"This incident is also a reminder [and sad reflection] to the fact that many of these hard earning Uber drivers  - most of who buy their own vehicles and try to make payments, while making a living, are also targeted by these criminals.

"I have been on a few rides with Uber, and many of these drivers are such good people. They work long hours, some studying as well or have extra jobs, and then they have to deal with these acts of crime too."

Watch the incident:

WATCH: Female GTI driver hijacked in Pinetown

Earlier in January 2017, Wheels24 reported on a dramatic clip captured on CCTV, when a young woman was hijacked as she pulled up to meet an acquaintance in Pinetown, Kwa-Zulu Natal. 

The video shows the female driver of a Volkswagen Golf GTI stop alongside a road and exit her car. It appears as if she stopped to pick up a male pedestrian who can be seen along the passenger side. 

A few seconds later, a silver Peugeot hatchback pulls-up alongside the duo and the pedestrian walks towards the rear of the Peugeot as though he recognizes one or more of the occupants. 

A man then leaps from the Peugeot at which point both the pedestrian and driver of the GTI attempt to flee the scene. You can spot one of the perpetrators chasing the pair and retrieving the GTI's keys. 

Arrive Alive's Johan Jonck commented on the incident: 

"This is another example of the impact that crime has on our road users. Unfortunately there is not much that could be done to prevent this incident. It is believed the driver ran away with the key and had to hand it over when being pursued by the hijackers.

"She did the right thing not to put up a fight which could have been deadly. The golden rule is that you can get your possessions back but not your life." 

Watch the incident: 

14 Tips to help avoid a hijacking: 

1 When approaching your vehicle, keep your key ready but not visible. Unlock your car when you're close by.   
2 Check the rear seat before getting into your car.
3 A well-maintained car is less likely to break down and leave you vulnerable.
4 Plan your route and let someone know what your route is and when to expect you at your destination.
5 Always check the rear-view mirror to see if you are being followed. 
6 Avoid driving with your windows open and keep the doors locked. Put all valuables out of sight. 
7 Avoid distractions while driving such as using a cellphone.
8 If you suspect you are being followed, drive to your nearest police station or a busy public area.
9 Then approaching a red traffic light, slow down so that you only reach it when it turns green.
10 Make sure your driveway is well lit and clear of shrubbery. 
11 If possible, park in a central, well-lit place, preferably with guards on duty. 
12 When stopping behind another vehicle, leave half a vehicle length in front so you can make an emergency escape if necessary.
13 Change your routes and your schedule if possible on a regular basis. 
14 Make arriving at your destination safer by calling ahead and asking someone to open and close your gate for you.






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