The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is asking members of the public to be extra alert and cautious when accepting rides from persons unknown to them.
This warning follows separate reports made by two female victims, one of whom was assaulted by a male driving a “small blue car” operating in the Blue Hills, Providenciales district.
Assistant Superintendent of Police (Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit) Grantley Williams said: “Within the past week the RTCIPF has received two reports of incidents where female members of the public were assaulted after catching what they believed to be jitneys. The females in both incidents received injuries either from the assailant who diverted from their stated destination or from jumping out of the moving vehicle. I am asking persons to be alert when accepting rides from members of the public.”
These incidents remain under active investigation.
The RTCIPF is asking anyone with information regarding these incidents or other information that may assist the police with enquiries to contact 911, the closest police station, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 and anonymously give any information.
Safety Tips
Before entering a vehicle, look at the license plate or take a photo of the number plate. Write it on your phone as soon as you get in so you don’t forget it.
Make a mental note of the colour and make of the vehicle. Observe the driver and other passengers.
If you notice you’re heading off-course, you can message family and friends with the number plate. If it becomes an emergency, call 911, giving them the license plate number, make, model, and direction in which you are heading. Always look for landmarks when giving directions. Seating arrangement – If you are the only passenger in the vehicle, sit in the backseat. Logically, you have a view of the driver and remove yourself from the possibility of any inappropriate gropes, etc. The backseat passenger side is usually best, as you’ve placed yourself at the furthest point from the driver.
Concentrate on the road. Avoid playing games on your phone and becoming distracted. Make sure you have enough data and your phone is charged at least 50 per cent. If you notice the driver going off route, call someone on your phone so the driver knows you’re in contact with someone. Ask to be let out and say something like, “Oh, I can see you!” or chat with someone on the phone, telling them, “I’ve just passed X or Y location”.
Don’t tell the driver that you’re travelling alone. If you’re conversing with the driver, never tell them you’re travelling alone. No matter how friendly they are. Mention you’re heading back to meet up with your friend or partner. Anyone travelling alone is more vulnerable — no matter your gender.