What are “express kidnappings” and how to avoid being a victim
There have been recent stories of arrests made of men who have carried out several “express kidnappings” of a diverse group of people. As reported in El Dia, according to Josefina Reynoso, who directs the Center for Safety and Defense Studies at the Global Foundation for Democracy and Development (Funglode), the rapid and short-term kidnappings are seen around the globe and are prevalent in Latin America. Of course, they represent a threat to the Dominican Republic.
According to Reynoso, these kidnappings generally occur randomly, without any previous study or “casing” of the victim. In general, there is no following of the victim. An indication of wealth or money is what sparks action. For example, a fancy car, a nice watch, jewelry, a smartphone and so on.
She explains what the criminals are after is money and to get it fast. Often times they use the victim’s car to go to ATMs to withdraw money.
So, what can be done? In the first place, be wary, cautious at all times when out in public. Anyone can be a victim. When in your vehicle, try to have the windows up and the doors locked at all times.
Never remain in dark or deserted places, and if in a parking lot/garage, enter the vehicle quickly and lock up at once. Move out quickly.
As you go about your business and errands, do not leave anything of value-cell phones, laptops, or pocketbooks out in plain sight. Avoid walking alone in dark or deserted areas.
Always let your family in the know on where you are going and when you plan to be back.
Do not display anything that shows wealth: watches, glasses, cell phones, etc. try to use as few credit cards as possible and never show large amounts of cash. Be very cautious with strangers, and never reveal your location on social media. You should use taxis and Uber that are known to you.
The statistics show that most of these lightning-strike kidnappings occur at night and usually when the person is alone.
Always be very cautious if your car is bumped from behind, especially under normal conditions. Since the criminals are generally satisfied with your belongings and money from an ATM, do not try to disarm or make them nervous. Caution is the key word for everyone nowadays.
Two recent cases of the named express kidnappings were recently promptly resolved by the Police. These were the case of two young men in Evaristo Morales neighborhood who at around 3am were leaving a get-together at a friend’s house, and that of a young woman who boarded a supposed shared taxi where passenger and drivers were assailants. In both cases, young people were involved. The pattern seems to be to go after young people who are most likely to use bankcards that allow for quick cash access through ATM machines.
Source: DR1, Eldia
June 3, 2019
Category: DR News |