Street crime is becoming increasingly diverse. One particularly alarming tactic is the tire-slashing scheme, which frequently occurs at traffic lights. Unlike random nail traps, this scheme tends to be more targeted, as the perpetrators often single out victims who appear to be carrying valuables inside their vehicles. This crime is usually carried out in groups with a very well-organized division of roles, ranging from the executor who slashes the tire to the accomplice tasked with giving a false warning to the victim.
The execution begins when the vehicle stops to wait for the green light. With a very quick and almost imperceptible movement, the perpetrator will slash the sidewall of the tire using a sharp object such as a razor blade or a modified small knife. What makes this method unique is that the tire does not lose air immediately at the scene; instead, it only feels flat after the car has driven several hundred meters. At that moment, another member of the group will approach the victim’s vehicle, pointing frantically at the tire with a panicked expression to make the driver anxious and pull over at a location they have already scouted.
The primary danger of this scam is not only the loss of personal belongings but also the threat to driving safety. The sidewall of a tire is the most critical component in supporting the vehicle’s weight, so a cut in that area can cause the tire to burst suddenly if the vehicle is forced to continue moving. Additionally, many victims find themselves in this situation because they immediately get out of the car without locking the doors or turning off the engine due to excessive panic. It is precisely that brief moment when the driver checks the tire that the perpetrator uses to snatch bags, laptops, or cell phones left on the passenger seat.
As a precaution, it is crucial for every driver not to leave valuables in places visible from outside the window. If a stranger warns you about a tire issue on the road, avoid stopping immediately in secluded or dark areas. Try to stay calm and continue driving slowly toward a safer location, such as a gas station or a busy parking area. By staying vigilant and not letting yourself be easily provoked by disturbances on the road, the risk of becoming a victim of this crime can be effectively minimized.
Source: Polri.go.id
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