KZN cops warn of new hijack tactic

Enterprising hijackers are targeting car dealerships in Durban, with three car salesmen hijacked on test drives in two days.

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Durban – A trio of enterprising hijackers have started targeting car dealerships in Durban’s southern areas, with three car salesmen having been hijacked on test drives in the past two days.

Police spokesman Major Zwane said on Wednesday that the first salesman took a vehicle to a prospective buyer in Isipingo on Monday. As the buyer did a test drive of the vehicle, the two were hijacked by two armed men.

The terrified salesman was dropped off on the N2 freeway and the hijackers disappeared with the prospective buyer.

The very next day on Tuesday in Amanzimtoti the same tactic was used on a car salesman, except that after the hijacking, the hijackers along with the “buyer” got cold feet and fled on foot when they noticed a police van in the Folweni.

Barey three hours later, a third salesman was hijacked after taking a vehicle to a prospective buyer in Isipingo. Again, during the drive, they were hijacked.

“They drove with him towards Adams Mission where they dropped him off and fled with the vehicle,” said Zwane.

Zwane said cases of hijacking had been opened at the Isipingo and Amanzimtoti police stations.

“Car dealers are advised to take extra precautions when dealing with their customers in terms of test driving, they must be escorted by a security company,” said Zwane.

African News Agency