By Agreement Mabunda
TZANEEN- What might be seen as an easy ride, a money-saving measure, or a way of making quick cash can be as well turn out to be a nightmare for both the hitchhikers and motorists.
Police in Tzaneen send a strong warning to hitchhikers and motorists to avoid such practices as they might have serious consequences.
They joined forces with the JHB-Tzaneen taxi association to create awareness and alert the hitchhikers about the dangers of hitchhiking at the R 71 Sasol garage towards( Polokwane) and the R 71 next to Isuzu Garage towards Phalaborwa and Giyani hiking spots.
The team highlighted the hitchhikers about the murders, rapes ,robberies with firearms, Assult GBH, stabbings , shootings and other serious crimes that occured as a result of hitchhiking.
“Hitchhiking is not unlawful, but criminals can use any opportunity that comes their way to fulfill their greed.” Police said
Dangers that hitchhikers might come across can include being run over by vehicles may be due to the driver’s negligence or poor visibility on their clothing in poorly lit areas. It also has high possibilities of other crimes like robberies, rapes, human trafficking, or even murders.
People who knock off late from duty should rather resort to lifting clubs or staff transport.
Should it happen that a person has no other option, such a person must be in a position to pay as motorists might offer lifts in exchange for some ungodly favors.
There are also high possibilities of accidents and unruly behaviors when hitchhikers come across a motorist or driver who gets behind the wheel being intoxicated.
Motorists should also value their hard-earned vehicles because not everyone who looks needy is really needy, some hitchhikers are looking for soft targets on the roads and police have on many occasions reported hijackings, of which some might emanate from giving people rides.
