Fidelity ADT is alerting residents in the Orchards to a concerning rise in kidnapping incidents reported over recent weeks. “According to information received, these incidents appear to involve the kidnappers following residents’ home late at night between 22:00 and midnight, abducting them, and demanding ransom from families” says Charnel Hattingh, Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity ADT.
“At this stage, the incidents do not appear to be targeting specific individuals, leading us to believe that opportunistic crime may be at play.”
“While investigations are ongoing, the pattern suggests criminals are exploiting moments of vulnerability, particularly when residents are travelling at night,” said Hattingh. “We urge the community to remain vigilant and take proactive safety precautions.”
What to look out for if you think you are being followed:
- Remember you need to be alert at all times and never get distracted with cell phones or kids in the car. Regularly check in your rear-view mirror and around you if stopped at a stop street or robot for any suspicious vehicles. Remember there could be more people involved than just the ones following you. Technology has made it possible for multiple people to communicate and talk about your moves
- If the one stops, another may just take over from them, so don’t let down your guard and get distracted
- They will probably drive past you a few times, then change lanes and fall back again when you least expect it
- Make sure you have an emergency number on your phone, you need to know who you want to phone in an emergency and dial that number immediately. If possible, let somebody know that you are being followed and try and give them as much information as possible. Ask them to alert 10111
- Try to keep as calm as possible and say focused on getting to a safe place
- Slow down – it is harder to follow somebody that is driving slowly but just keep moving
- Turn your radio down so you are fully aware of your surroundings
- Put your headlights on bright and put your hazards on, day or night as you want to attract as much attention as possible
- Do not go home – don’t show them where you live
- Head for a busy place if possible, like a 24-hour garage, hospital, police station etc. where it is more difficult to follow you in and where there may be surveillance cameras.
Fidelity ADT is working closely with the community and continues to monitor the situation. Increased patrols and visibility have been implemented in affected area where possible.
“We cannot overstate the importance of community awareness,” added Hattingh. “Immediate reporting and collective vigilance play a critical role in preventing crime.”
Residents with information related to these incidents are urged to contact SAPS or their private security provider immediately.
Issued on behalf of Fidelity Services Group – CharnelH@fidelity-services.com
