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WATCH: Mercedes-Benz hijacked at Joburg petrol station

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Image: Facebook / Yusuf Abramjee
Image: Facebook / Yusuf Abramjee

Roodepoort - Earlier in 2017, Wheels24 reported that more than 1 400 cars are hijacked on a monthly basis in SA. 

Norman Sekhukhune, SAPS Head of Crime Research and Statistics, said that in nine months under review, carjackings had increased by 14.9%. From April and December, 12 743 vehicles were hijacked, compared to 11 086 during the same period in 2015.

Gone in 60 seconds

A video, posted on Facebook by Yusuf Abramjee, shows a hijacking at a Sasol garage on Christian de Wet Road, just behind Clearwater Mall, in Roodepoort outside Johannesburg.

CCTV footage reveals a group of armed men hijacking a Mercedes-Benz. The criminals forced the driver from the car (who can be seen with his hands in the air) and sped off with the car.

READ: 1 car hijacked every 32 minutes' in SA

According to News24: "The police and a private tracking company on Thursday recovered a white Mercedes-Benz which had been hijacked in less than a minute at a filling station in Johannesburg."

Police spokesperson Captain Balan Muthan said the car had been found in Kagiso, Netwerk24 reported

WATCH the hijacking as it happened below:

Here's how you can avoid becoming a victim

1. Keep an eye on pedestrians at intersections and unfamiliar cars in your neighbourhood
2. Never disregard someone as a threat because they are well dressed
3. If you are approached by a hijacker keep your hands visible at all times
4. Unlock your car only when you're close by 
5. A well-maintained car is less likely to break down and leave you vulnerable
6. Avoid driving with your windows open and keep your doors locked. Place valuables out of sight
7. If you suspect you are being followed, drive to your nearest police station or a busy public area
8. When approaching a red traffic light, slow down so that you only reach it when it turns green

WATCH: Quick-thinking Porsche driver outwits armed hijacker

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