Security company Delport Securitas has warned South African motorists of a resurgence in “Blue Light Gang” activities, particularly in Gauteng, the Free State, and Mpumalanga.
The Blue Light Gang employs stolen or counterfeit police uniforms and blue lights to deceive unsuspecting drivers into thinking they are legitimate law enforcement officials.
Once the individual heeds the command of the “police officer” and pulls over on the side of the road, the gang typically approaches them from behind using flashing blue lights to mimic real police stops.
The victims are then robbed, hijacked, assaulted, or in extreme cases, kidnapped.
“The notorious ‘Blue Light Gang’ has reportedly resumed its operations,” said Delport Securitas.
“Motorists are advised to remain highly vigilant when traveling on the R23 between Heidelberg and Balfour, particularly between 18h00 and 22h00, following a sharp rise in hijacking incidents in the area.”
In the most recent case on 12 March, a traveller from Standerton was targeted just after the Balfour circle.
According to the Standerton Chronicle, the victim allegedly mistook the gang’s blue lights for an official police stop, duly pulled over, and was forcibly removed from his vehicle.
The assailants dragged him into a nearby field, restrained him, and held him down while stealing his car.
Cars targeted
The Grootvlei Police highlighted that the types of vehicles most frequently targeted by Blue Light Gangs are bakkies and SUVs.
The specific models include:
- Ford Ranger
- Toyota Fortuner
- Toyota GD-6 bakkies
- Toyota Land Cruisers
However, the authorities emphasise that no vehicle is completely safe from being attacked.
The Grootvlei Police warned road users not to stop when flagged down by police with blue lights on their vehicle dashboard on the N3 freeway and R54 route, especially at night.
Most incidents have thus far took place between Wilge Plaza and De Hoek Plaza on the N3 Freeway, and on the R54 Provincial Route between Villiers and Vereeniging.
Instead, drive to a safe location with your hazards on and call the police, a friend, or a family member for assistance and to inform them of what’s going on.
“If they are real police officials, they will follow you until it is safe to stop,” said the Grootvlei Police.
The authorities also advises motorists to record the make, model, colour, and registration number of the vehicle attempting to pull them over.
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