Car crime happens every day to someone in Northern Ireland and with 4,421 vehicle-related crimes recorded by the PSNI in 2016/17, it’s the third most common theft offence.
This gritty PSNI video of CCTV bodycam footage shows a car hijacking in a public carpark and how officers quickly catch the hijackers and retrieve the car.
A woman walks over to her parked car, seemingly not noticing two men standing close by. Within seconds she is being threatened by one of the men who demand her keys and they then hijack the car in broad daylight.
Unlike some of the violent car hijackings in Belfast last year, this woman was lucky as she was not physically injured, although she was left badly shaken.
A police chase of hijackers ensues and a stinger operation – a high-speed protection trap – is thrown across the road, slowing down the stolen car, allowing the officers to catch the hijackers.
It’s all in a day’s work for PSNI officers as they work to protect people and property as part of their role in serving the community.
Today, the PSNI is asking: Have you got what it takes to make a difference for your community?
A recruitment campaign to attract 300 new constables is open until Friday November 10, with the aim of having the trained officers working in the community by next summer.
Constables will receive a starting salary of £19,500, rising up to £38,000 after recruits have undergone further experience and training.
To be eligible, applicants must have a minimum of 5 GCSE A*-C grades, including maths and English, as well as basic computer skills.
The online assessment, offered to encourage more Catholics to apply, will test applicants’ verbal reasoning as well as situational judgement, followed by further assessment stages.
Do you have what it takes to make a difference in your community? Start a career with the PSNI and make a difference. Apply at www.joinpsni.co.uk by November 10 2017.
PSNI advice to help protect yourself and your vehicle
Avoid assault/hi-jacking
- Keep doors locked and handbags and valuables out of view
- Never pick up hitchhikers. Only give lifts to people you know well
- Do not stop if someone tries to flag you down
- If you need air, only wind your window down a little so nobody can reach in while you are stopped in traffic
- Keep your mobile out of sight and do not use it while driving
- Avoid eye contact with aggressive or suspicious drivers
- If you are forced to stop, keep your engine running and make sure you have enough room to drive away
- If a driver gets out and approaches you, flash your lights and sound your horn. If you have an alarm, set it off
Parking Your Car
- Remember if you are parking in daylight things will look different at night. To ensure your safety when you return, always park in a busy, well-lit area
- Always have your keys ready when you are coming back to your car
- Take a look inside before you get in and make sure there is no-one there
For further advice visit - https://www.psni.police.uk/advice_information/protecting-yourself/driving/
