Caledon police have warned the public to exercise extreme caution when hitch-hiking or to think twice before giving strangers a lift.
“What may be seen as an easy ride or a money saving measure, or a way of making quick cash, can prove a nightmare for both hitchhiker and motorist,” stated Caledon police spokesperson Sergeant Tembi Gweyi.
“As the police we send a strong warning to hitchhikers and motorists to avoid such practices, as they may have serious consequences. Hitchhiking is not unlawful, but criminals can use any opportunity that comes their way to fulfil their greed.”
Dangers hitchhikers may come across, he explained, include being run over by vehicles due to the driver’s negligence or poor visibility in poorly lit areas. “There are also high possibilities of other crimes, such as robberies, rape, human trafficking or even murder.”
Gweyi advises people who knock off from work very late rather to make use of lift clubs or staff transport instead of hitchhiking. He also cautioned motorists against hitchhikers looking for a soft target.
“The police have on many occasions responded to hijackings, some of which emanated from giving people rides.”
These warnings come after a woman who hitchhiked from Riviersonderend to Caledon was robbed by the men who gave her a lift.
“She received a lift from two men in a green car with a FS registration number. One of them demanded her cellphone and when she refused he reportedly threatened her with a firearm.
“They also demanded money, her bank card and pin number. The suspects then dropped her off along the N2 between Riviersonderend and Caledon. They turned back and headed in Riviersonderend’s direction. The complainant reported the incident at Caledon Police Station for further investigation.”
A case of robbery with a firearm is being investigated.