The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) is urging the public to exercise heightened caution when accepting rides from unknown individuals, following a serious assault on a female victim that occurred on Saturday, November 23, 2024.
The warning comes after a distressing incident involving a woman who was assaulted after entering what she believed to be a jitney, or public transport vehicle.
Superintendent Dean Holden, responsible for Crime, Safeguarding, Public Protection, and Intelligence, provided details of the incident, which took place around midday on November 23. The victim entered a small vehicle she assumed was a licensed jitney on Black Crow Road in Kew Town. However, she later became unconscious and was discovered in the Granny Hill area of Five Cays with severe injuries. While the motive behind the attack is still under investigation, there is a possibility it could have been sexually motivated.
Holden stressed the importance of caution when using public transport, warning against the risks posed by unlicensed jitneys.
“The apparent jitney involved is described as a small black car carrying two males, and the journey from Black Crow Road to Granny Hill took 2-3 hours,” he explained.
The RT&CIPF is actively investigating the assault and is appealing for any information that may assist in the case. Authorities are asking the public to come forward with any details about the incident or the vehicle involved. The police encourage individuals to contact the nearest police station, dial 911, reach the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or use Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to provide anonymous tips. Additionally, the Crime Stoppers P3 app is available for those wishing to share information.
To help prevent similar incidents, the RT&CIPF has issued a series of safety tips for individuals who may need to use unlicensed vehicles or accept rides from strangers:
Document Vehicle Information: Before entering a vehicle, take note of the license plate number or take a photo. Write it down on your phone to ensure you don't forget it.
Observe the Vehicle and Passengers: Mentally note the vehicle's make, color, and the appearance of the driver and passengers.
Alert Someone: If you notice that the driver is going off-course, message family or friends with the license plate number and details of your location. If it becomes an emergency, call 911 immediately.
Sit in the Backseat: If you're the only passenger, sit in the backseat to ensure you have a better view of the driver and reduce the risk of inappropriate behavior.
Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions: Keep your attention on the road and avoid becoming distracted by activities like playing games on your phone.
Ensure Your Phone is Charged: Make sure your phone has at least 50% battery and is connected to the internet. If you feel unsafe, contact someone so the driver knows you are in communication with others.
The RT&CIPF's warning highlights the importance of remaining vigilant and taking steps to protect oneself when using public transport or accepting rides from unfamiliar individuals. The police remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of the public and urge anyone with relevant information to assist in the ongoing investigation.
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