PROJECT: WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF AN ARMED ROBBERY
- Isabel Spies
- 8 hours ago
- 5 min read
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Armed robberies remain unpredictable, violent, and are frequently perpetrated by ruthless criminals who are prepared to kill without hesitation. Although the Festive Season has passed, the heightened criminal risk does not immediately subside in January. In the weeks following December, many households and businesses are financially strained after holiday spending, while others are still receiving late bonus payouts, settling outstanding accounts,
or returning to routine cash withdrawals and retail activity.
Historically, criminals exploit this post-Festive transition period, as public vigilance often decreases and security measures are relaxed under the false assumption that the danger has passed. Retail centres, ATMs, fuel stations, and small businesses remain attractive targets, particularly as consumer movement increases with the reopening of schools, offices, and businesses.
The continued movement of people, combined with distraction and financial pressure,
creates favourable conditions for criminal activity.
Violent crime trends have consistently shown that elevated levels experienced during December often spill over into January, rather than ending abruptly. This carry-over effect underscores the importance of sustained awareness and preventative security measures in the early months of the new year, as criminals continue to capitalise on opportunity, complacency,
and economic vulnerability.
When you find yourself caught in the middle of such an incident, your primary objective is survival.
Specialised Security Services provides the following critical guidelines to reduce risk, preserve life,
and help you make informed decisions during these high-threat situations.
1. REMAIN CALM AND COMPOSED:
Panic leads to poor decisions.
Take slow breaths, stay as still as possible, and avoid sudden movements.
Criminals are already on edge, armed, and prepared to react aggressively to any perceived threat.
2. DO NOT RESIST OR CONFRONT THE ROBBERS:
Armed gangs are often heavily equipped, highly trained, and extremely violent.
Any attempt to fight back, argue, or flee can provoke immediate lethal retaliation.
Your life is worth far more than any property.
3. FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS EXACTLY:
Robbers want to get in, take what they came for, and leave quickly.
Complying with their demands — without question or hesitation — reduces tension and keeps you safer.
Maintain a respectful tone if you are forced to speak.
4. AVOID EYE CONTACT, BUT OBSERVE SAFELY:
Do not stare at the attackers, as it can be interpreted as a threat.
However, discreetly take note of:
Clothing, shoes, gloves.
Voice, height, build.
Distinctive movements or mannerisms.
Vehicles used (colour, model, markings).
Only do this if it does not endanger you.
5. PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS NEAR YOU:
If possible:
Move behind solid cover (counters, pillars, walls).
Get low — gunfire usually travels horizontally.
Shield children or vulnerable people with your body while keeping your movements controlled and slow.
6. DO NOT USE YOUR PHONE DURING THE INCIDENT:
Robbers may interpret phone use as you calling for help, pressing a panic button, or recording them.
This can trigger immediate violence.
Keep your hands visible and still.
7. STAY AWARE OF THE EXIT ROUTE — BUT DO NOT RUN:
Running can cause armed suspects to panic or fire.
Only move when instructed or when it is absolutely safe and obvious that the attackers have left.
8. AFTER THE ROBBERS LEAVE, STAY PUT FOR A FEW SECONDS:
Many criminals fire shots when retreating or leave a second group outside as cover.
Wait, listen, and ensure the danger has truly passed before moving.
9. ASSIST OTHERS AND CALL FOR HELP:
Once safe:
Warn others to stay away from the scene.
Call the police, security company, or emergency services.
Provide clear information: location, injuries, number of suspects, weapons, vehicles.
10. DO NOT TOUCH ANYTHING AT THE SCENE:
Spent cartridges, dropped items, or damaged surfaces are critical forensic evidence.
Avoid contaminating the crime scene.
11. SEEK MEDICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT:
Even if you are not physically injured, armed robbery is a traumatic event.
Speak to a professional, debrief with your security provider, and monitor for stress reactions in the days that follow.
Armed robberies in South Africa are increasingly violent, coordinated, and executed by well-trained groups.
Your best defence is situational awareness, calm behaviour, and strict compliance.
Specialised Security Services encourages all citizens to prioritise personal safety above all else
and to report suspicious behaviour or criminal intelligence immediately.
Your life cannot be replaced. Your valuables can.
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