The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) has issued a warning to the public regarding the presence of sexual predator jitney drivers.
The caution comes after two separate incidents were reported in which female victims were assaulted after accepting rides from what they believed to be jitneys, one of which involved a male driving a "small blue car" in the Blue Hills, Providenciales district.
Assistant Superintendent of Police, Grantley Williams, stated that within the past week, the RTCIPF has received two reports of assaults on female passengers who accepted rides from seemingly harmless individuals. The assailants either diverted from the intended destination or inflicted harm on the victims who jumped out of the moving vehicle. Both cases are currently under active investigation.
To ensure the safety of the public, the RTCIPF has provided safety tips for individuals when accepting rides from strangers:
· License Plate Check: Before entering a vehicle, carefully examine the license plate or take a photo of it. Immediately document the plate number on your phone.
· Vehicle Details: Make a mental note of the vehicle's color and make. Observe the driver and any other passengers in the vehicle.
· Emergency Messaging: If you notice any deviation from the intended route, message family or friends with the vehicle's number plate. In emergencies, call 911 and provide detailed information about the vehicle.
· Seating Arrangement: When the passenger is alone in the vehicle, sit in the backseat. This provides a clear view of the driver and reduces the risk of inappropriate behavior. The backseat passenger side is recommended for maximum distance from the driver.
· Concentration on the Road: Avoid distractions, such as playing games on your phone, and stay focused on the surroundings.
· Phone Preparation: Ensure your phone has enough data and is charged to at least 50%. If the driver deviates from the route, call someone so the driver is aware you are in contact with someone else.
· Protect Personal Information: Refrain from disclosing that you are traveling alone. If conversing with the driver, provide misleading information about meeting up with friends or a partner.
The RTCIPF encourages anyone with information about these incidents or any related details to contact the police through emergency services, the nearest police station, the Serious Crime Unit, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
This advisory serves as a reminder for individuals to exercise caution and take proactive measures to enhance their safety when accepting rides from unfamiliar individuals.
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