ROBBED AT GUNPOINT: WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
A reality-based adventure with guidance & tips from security expert Norbert Almeida -
Illustrations by Alyna Butt

It is 11pm and you are driving down a poorly lit road that is devoid of cars.

You pull up at the signal, and like a good citizen, you wait for the light to turn green.

In this time, a motorcycle pulls up next to your car.

You hear a tapping on the window. It's a gun, held by a menacing young man who is furiously indicating you should roll down your window.

What do you do?


Step on the accelerator
Roll down your window

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You roll down your window slightly. This is actually a really good idea.


Norbert Almeida: Roll down the window just partially. That permits you to clearly understand what is being said. If you have someone else in the vehicle keep their windows closed.


The gun is shoved in your face.

"Give me your wallet, your watch and your mobile phone. Now."

What do you choose to do?


Hand over all items
Hand over wallet and watch - hold on to your phone
Try to argue/reason with the man

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You hand over all your belongings, which is the right thing to do for a number of reasons.


Norbert Almeida: Handing over the phone was a good idea. Criminals are street smart, they know in today's world the likelihood of a person driving a car and not carrying a mobile is very remote. They also expect some resistance and will not shy away from becoming physically and verbally aggressive.

Not arguing with the man was also a good idea. Time is of the essence to a criminal. He's not going to hang around to patiently hear your pleas. He also believes he is the one in control of the situation because he's armed. The quicker he's out of there the better it is for both yourself and his safety.


Unfortunately, this horrific episode isn't over.

The youth checks your wallet, then opens the back door of your car. He climbs in behind you, then puts the gun to your temple.

"We are going to follow my partner on the bike to the nearest ATM. Stop there. We'll both go in together. You will pull out the maximum sum on BOTH your debit cards…and if you try anything at all, I will kill you. And if I don't my partner will."

You nod your head.

You know this neighbourhood has two ATMs close by; one which is fairly new (you've seen a CCTV camera inside) and one that is fairly old (badly maintained lighting).

Where do you go?


Go to the old ATM. If you take the criminals to a new ATM, they'll know what you're up to.
Go to the new ATM. Hopefully the criminals will not have thought about CCTV.

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You hand over your belongings, minus the phone.

"Where's the phone? I said WHERE'S THE PHONE?"


Make an excuse
Hand over the phone

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

"I left the phone at home because it wasn't charged…"

The young man hits you over the head with the gun, leaving you bleeding. You are actually lucky that's all he did.


Norbert Almeida: Criminals are street smart, they know in today's world the likelihood of a person driving a car and not carrying a mobile is very remote. They also expect some resistance and will not shy away from becoming physically and verbally aggressive.


Do you want to ask him to at least return your SIM card?


Yes
No

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You hand over the phone. Which was the right thing to do in the first place.


Norbert Almeida: Criminals are street smart, they know in today's world the likelihood of a person driving a car and not carrying a mobile is very remote. They also expect some resistance and will not shy away from becoming physically and verbally aggressive.


Do you want to ask him to at least return your SIM card?


Yes
No

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You decide against asking for your SIM back. You've already agitated the man enough. This is a wise choice.


Norbert Almeida: Time is of the essence to a criminal. He's not going to hang around to patiently hear your pleas. He also believes he is the one in control of the situation because he's armed. The quicker he's out of there the better it is for both yourself and his safety.


Unfortunately, this horrific episode isn't over. The youth checks your wallet, then opens the back door of your car. He climbs in behind you, then puts the gun to your temple.

"We are going to follow my partner on the bike to the nearest ATM. Stop there. We'll both go in together. You will pull out the maximum sum on BOTH your debit cards…and if you try anything at all, I will kill you. And if I don't my partner will."

You nod your head.

You know this neighbourhood has two ATMs close by; one which is fairly new (you've seen a CCTV camera inside) and one that is fairly old (badly maintained lighting).

Where do you go?


Go to the old ATM. If you take the criminals to a new ATM, they'll know what you're up to.
Go to the new ATM. Hopefully the criminals will not have thought about CCTV.

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You decide against asking for your SIM back. You've already agitated the man enough. This is a wise choice.

Norbert Almeida: Time is of the essence to a criminal. He's not going to hang around to patiently hear your pleas. He also believes he is the one in control of the situation because he's armed. The quicker he's out of there the better it is for both yourself and his safety.

Unfortunately, this horrific episode isn't over. The youth checks your wallet, then opens the back door of your car. He climbs in behind you, then puts the gun to your temple.

"We are going to follow my partner on the bike to the nearest ATM. Stop there. We'll both go in together. You will pull out the maximum sum on BOTH your debit cards…and if you try anything at all, I will kill you. And if I don't my partner will."

You nod your head.

You know this neighbourhood has two ATMs close by; one which is fairly new (you've seen a CCTV camera inside) and one that is fairly old (badly maintained lighting).

Where do you go?

Go to the old ATM. If you take the criminals to a new ATM, they'll know what you're up to.
Go to the new ATM. Hopefully the criminals will not have thought about CCTV.

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You go to the old ATM...the young man doesn't seem to care either way, which means you have lost the opportunity to catch the criminal and yourself on camera.


Norbert Almeida: You don't know what the criminal's plans are, and entering an ATM with an operational camera at least identifies your location for investigators.


You pull over. There is no security guard in sight. The youth gets out of the car and throws open your door, pulling you out roughly. The two of you enter the tiny ATM booth.

"Go ahead," he says, shoving you once again.


Use both cards and pull out money
Use both cards but enter the wrong pin code for one

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You go to the new ATM...and the young man doesn't seem to care.

You pull over. There is no security guard in sight. The youth gets out of the car and throws open your door, pulling you out roughly. The two of you enter the tiny ATM booth.

"Go ahead," he says, shoving you once again.


Norbert Almeida: When you enter make sure the camera captures your features clearly. You don't know what his plans are this way at least your location could be identified by investigators. Also you could report the incident to the bank later.


Use both cards and pull out money
Use both cards but enter the wrong pin code for one

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You pull out the cash on both cards, which is a very safe option.


Norbert Almeida: The criminal has what he wants there's no need for him to show any aggression and you remain unharmed.


The young man seems pleased, and far more relaxed now.

The two of you exit the ATM, and you are thankful this horrible episode has come to an end.

Except…

"Now we're going to drive around till midnight, and then you're going to pull out the maximum sum again, got it?" the young man says.

What do you do?


Make a break for it
Do as he says

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You pull out the cash on one card, but enter the wrong pin for the other and feign surprise.

"It isn't working," you say."

"If it doesn't work, I'm going to shoot you right here," the youth says calmly. He's definitely seen this trick before. You decide to abandon this plan and pull out money on the second card.


Norbert Almeida: He's street smart and would not hesitate to harm if you if he sense you're faking it. Failure is not an option for him & if he senses it he's likely to take out his anger on you.


The young man seems pleased, and far more relaxed now.

The two of you exit the ATM, and you are thankful this horrible episode has come to an end.

Except…

"Now we're going to drive around till midnight, and then you're going to pull out the maximum sum again, got it?" the young man says.

What do you do?


Make a break for it
Do as he says

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You do as the youth says. The drive around is uncomfortable, but uneventful. A little while later you return to the ATM, pull out yet more money, and then the two criminals leave on their bike, warning you not to follow or call the police.


CONGRATULATIONS

You have made it through theft and express kidnapping shaken but unharmed.

Since you had the presence of mind to take the criminals to an ATM with a CCTV camera, the young men are eventually identified and caught by the police.

Play through the encounter again to learn more about express kidnappings.


While this fictional account is a helpful tool to prepare you for such an unfortunate event, read more tips from Norbert Almeida below.

REDUCE THE RISK

  1. Lock your car doors and keep the windows rolled up.
  2. If on a motorcycle then place a bag on the rear part of the seat to prevent someone from jumping on board (pillion rider).
  3. Remain alert to people loitering around your vehicle if it is parked.
  4. If you stop at a signal and there are people hanging around, move away if you sense it is unusual (remember such crimes occur late at night to benefit from the date change transaction limits).
  5. Avoid talking on the phone while driving especially at signals (your phone could serve as an indication of your worth and also diverts your attention from your surroundings).
  6. Don't give lifts to strangers. (Old folk, injury victims, law enforcement personnel, beggars could be disguises used by criminals to prey on their next victim).
  7. Carry the least number of cards on your person.
  8. Cards should also have the lowest daily withdrawal limits.
  9. Cards should be linked to accounts with the least amount of balance.

ONCE YOU ARE HELD HOSTAGE



  1. Comply with what is asked of you and try to remain calm.
  2. If you can, try and memorise distinguishing features that can help you identify the kidnappers later.
  3. When using ATMs try to divert them to one where you know there's a working CCTV camera.
  4. If you are capable of using the bank phone without detection then do so. Alternatively you may, again without detection if possible, unhook the phone and let it hang and talk in loud tones. (Bank helpline operators are generally provided guidelines on handling calls where a customer could be at risk).
  5. Entering the wrong pin and resulting in declined transactions could result in aggression by the kidnappers. While you may be genuinely nervous and forget the pin but the kidnapper tend to assume you are stalling for time.
  6. ATMs do capture or reject cards that are damaged, if you are able to, and then while slipping the card in the slot scratch the magnetic strip. (Remember do so only if it can remain undetected).
  7. Escape if possible in a manner that doesn't cause you more harm. (Kidnappers are generally armed and will not hesitate to shoot you).
  8. Do not challenge them physically in any manner unless you know it's your only chance of getting away with your life intact. The key to survival is not antagonizing the assailant.
  9. Keep in mind assailants avoid working individually. In addition to those visible, they may have backups hidden who will come to their aid.
  10. Time is of the essence. The longer you keep them in your presence the greater the risk of harm to you as the criminal fears harm coming to him.
Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You step on the accelerator, hoping to make a quick getaway.

Unfortunately, this almost never works.

The young man pulls the trigger a split-second after the car moves. The window shatters and the bullet pierces your shoulder. As you slump in your seat, the man fires another two shots at you, and then escapes on the bike.

In all probability, you are dead.


Norbert Almeida: Street criminals are generally only after your valuables. Giving up those valuables without resistance maximizes the potential of survival unharmed.


Restart

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You try to reason with the criminal. Which is the wrong thing to do.

The young man, now clearly nervous, threatens to shoot you, then strikes you over the head. You are actually lucky that's all he did.


Norbert Almeida: Time is of the essence to a criminal. He's not going to hang around to patiently hear your pleas. He also believes he is the one in control of the situation because he's armed. The quicker he's out of there the better it is for both yourself and his safety.


Hand over all items

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

You make a break for it, running down the footpath...

But the youth fires two bullets that hit you in the back.

You collapse and eventually bleed to death just outside the ATM. The young man and his partner escape with ease.


Norbert Almeida: Making a break for it should only be considered if you are absolutely certain your life depends on it and are able to escape with the least possible harm coming to you. Running in plain sight of an armed criminal generally doesn't end well.



Restart

Illustrations by Alyna Butt

"Listen, can I at least get my SIM back? You really don't need it."

Saying this was a very bad idea, especially as you have already agitated the thief.


Norbert Almeida: Time is of the essence to a criminal. He's not going to hang around to patiently hear your pleas. He also believes he is the one in control of the situation because he's armed. The quicker he's out of there the better it is for both yourself and his safety.


The young man pulls the trigger even as you try to accelerate to safety.The window shatters and the bullet pierces your shoulder. As you slump in your seat, the man fires another two shots at you, and then escapes on the bike.

In all probability, you are dead.


Norbert Almeida: Street criminals are generally only after your valuables. Giving up those valuables without resistance maximizes the potential of survival unharmed.


Restart

Comments (137) Closed
Laila Q
Apr 28, 2016 01:26pm
I died instantly
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ZIDANE
Apr 28, 2016 01:29pm
I scroll down window, and gives which he demand. Because life is priceless and no adventure on the behalf of life.
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AKS
Apr 28, 2016 01:28pm
I wont stop at the signal at this time
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Khyber
Apr 28, 2016 01:38pm
i roll down the window
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Zak
Apr 28, 2016 01:39pm
My car is not just any car it is the latest batmobile , so I guess I will keep listening to my music and just ignore them.
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sana
Apr 28, 2016 01:39pm
I will pray to our only hero Raheel Sharief to save me and will not roll down the window.
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lkhan
Apr 28, 2016 01:41pm
Just the thought makes one's hair stand up. Having been held up with a sharp knife against my neck once, I have to say, the reaction is nothing like what one would have planned. It was outrage, asking the man why hold a knife to my neck, why not ask me what he wanted without intimidation. The knife slackened, he took my bag and ran to a waiting car. At the police station in Madrid, I realised he was the most wanted man at the time for having raped brutally and tortured over a week, several girls who were eventually killed. The getaway car was found as I had taken down the numberplate, and the fingerprints confirmed the identity. Coming back to your question, frankly, I would want to duck down and accelerate out of the situation providing there was no traffic.... and drive as fast as possible away from the killer. Whether I would do it or not, I do not know! One's reaction is quite different when the adrenalin begins pumping.
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ashutosh mishra
Apr 28, 2016 01:44pm
Very useful and practical and logic based advice. Thanks.
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nuzhat nisar
Apr 28, 2016 01:49pm
seems like a grave situation. roll down window, listen the instruction carefully, follows.
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Hamid
Apr 28, 2016 01:50pm
Speed of Bullet is more than the initial speed of car, so obviously lowering window is the only option left. However, always try to keep your important cards separately and not in the wallet, might save some headache later on.
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rizwan
Apr 28, 2016 02:02pm
Accelerate if possible
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Shahzeb
Apr 28, 2016 02:02pm
I would politely role down the window and nicely ask the fellow how i could help him :P
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Ali
Apr 28, 2016 02:03pm
Nothing precious than life itself
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Skeptic
Apr 28, 2016 02:05pm
Hand over whatever this robber asks for. Your phone, wallet, cards and watch can be replaced. The car (hopefully) is insured. Don't try to be hero and fight. Nothing is worth a precious life. A life many many be depending on.
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noman tayyab
Apr 28, 2016 02:05pm
roll down window and hand him over what ever he asks for. Life is more precious than all other useless bravery stunts.
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humble
Apr 28, 2016 02:09pm
I once tried to step on the accelerator trying to chase them down and run car over them,but I was totally wrong not knowing that 125 cc motorbikes pick was much faster than my car and the result was devastating, within seconds they raced their motorbike far away while the person sitting behind was armed,he fired five times with his pistol at our car and all bullets hitting my car from front, miraculously nothing serious happened just one bullet hit my arm as we slipped underneath the car seat the moment we saw him taking his gun out to fire,at that moment I freaked out and knew immediately what a mistake I had done but thanks God govt.hospital was nearby and gave the first aid treatment after investigation.Our family were breathing a new life that night and I'm thankful to The Almighty who protected us like a shield around our car and bullets just ripping off the body of the car and not us..
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Marvin
Apr 28, 2016 02:14pm
It happened to me on April 14, 2016 on my way to Airport. Exactly what you described but it was on a stop go heavy traffic situation. My driver open the window and ask me to hand over money. The young man jumped from no where and knocked the driver side car window. Upon given the money he ran off. It happened so quick ( about 5 seconds?) as I had always prepare to give ! Marvin
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Farhan
Apr 28, 2016 02:23pm
I hand over everything which he demand, money, watch,cell phone etc life is important than everything which i have not a single thing can compare to a life.
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Uskhan
Apr 28, 2016 02:29pm
My Experience is opposite. I was walking and car stopped beside me. Driver roll down window and pointed gun at me? then asked for my wallet and mobile. I gave him. He took and step on the accelerator and flew away.
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haris
Apr 28, 2016 02:33pm
" you wait for the light to turn red" or wait for it to turn Green...
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Mrs.Khan
Apr 28, 2016 02:33pm
I have bullet proof windows and pepper spray for these kind of situations.
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Khalid
Apr 28, 2016 02:41pm
Have been through this 6 times in my life. Always gave in keeping calm and quiet. Life is more precious.
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UK
Apr 28, 2016 02:42pm
I would show him my own gun from inside and then see his reaction
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taimoor khan
Apr 28, 2016 02:47pm
It is 11pm and you are driving down a poorly lit road that is devoid of cars. You pull up at the signal, and like a good citizen, you wait for the light to turn red. It is 11PM and devoid of traffic, so are you fool to stop at a signal and wait to get robbed.
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Naveed
Apr 28, 2016 03:00pm
Point a bigger gun at him!
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Noman
Apr 28, 2016 03:02pm
Not if you are a professional and even 1 sec make a difference my friend Norbert
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huma
Apr 28, 2016 03:02pm
i wont stop at signals on these times simple, waise we have been robbed several times could'nt do anything
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Noman
Apr 28, 2016 03:05pm
Not, if you are trained operator my friend Norbert. Even 1 sec make a huge difference. You can surprise the thugs but you need to react instantly.
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Zak
Apr 28, 2016 03:06pm
@UK He will blow your gun off and you will regret your decision for the rest of your life.
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Anand Kumar Khatri
Apr 28, 2016 03:10pm
In Karachi, I will not travel on poorly lit road even it is 11am or 11pm.
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Adeel Khan
Apr 28, 2016 03:10pm
@Shahzeb trust me this worked for me, he was nice enough to tell me where he would be throwing off my wallet with everything in it except the cash and the phone..
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MHW
Apr 28, 2016 03:18pm
give when this happened ... but keep your card/cnic separated valut
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Naimat Khan
Apr 28, 2016 03:21pm
I will obey like a good boy.
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MHW
Apr 28, 2016 03:21pm
so ,, for what we are paying (tax) ?? 1-self defense 2-Give up and clam what ever happened. 3- try to migrate to other country. 4- no one ask LEA why this is happened.
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M. Ayub Khan
Apr 28, 2016 03:28pm
I would scroll down window and handed over what he demand, but of course will abuse and beating him continuously in my mind :) Life is precious and I saw multiple videos they don't hesitate to fire on you, not because they are brave enough but in panic if they think they would face resistant.
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M. Ayub Khan
Apr 28, 2016 03:29pm
@Marvin Good decision....
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Asif Jamil
Apr 28, 2016 03:29pm
Keep your doors locked. Don't make them angry. Don't carry much cash, and credit cards, in wallet. Make sure your mobile contacts are backed up / or you have a hard copy.
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M. Ayub Khan
Apr 28, 2016 03:32pm
@Shahzeb, In such cases, do not try to interact with them, keep your eyes down, just follow what they say like boss. :) hand should be on steering, if you want to pull your wallet from your back pocket, ask him before moving you hand.
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Kashif Aleem Khan
Apr 28, 2016 03:36pm
I scroll down window, and gives which he demand.
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Eastwood
Apr 28, 2016 03:38pm
Make my day!
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PT
Apr 28, 2016 03:39pm
I have been robbed like this few years back and that too not on a poorly lit are but a congested traffic light in the heart of the city with cars and motor-bikes and no-one could do anything and I do not blame them.
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adnan shamim
Apr 28, 2016 03:41pm
I carry 2 to 3 ATM cards, and one of them has about 10k, the other 2 have 5 and 7ish thousand. these are enough to go by any day on the streets. the phone is not a 3310 but a decent old set. i got out of this questionnaire unscratched :P
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M. Malik
Apr 28, 2016 03:43pm
If you must stay out that late at night, than precaution is better than cure. Leave most of your valuables at home. I carry two mobiles. a cheapy one and a smart phone.. I'll hand him the nearly empty wallet, as Rs, 4000 phone and the car keys! My car is insured, So I won't loose much.
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Nitin (Rajput)
Apr 28, 2016 03:46pm
Nice one !!! Great Simply Great
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Mahmood
Apr 28, 2016 03:52pm
If the streets are deserted and devoid of cars, I wouldn't stop at any signal, that late at night...slow down perhaps, but do not stop completely.
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Bilal Baloch
Apr 28, 2016 03:58pm
As I have no car will enjoy reading below mentioned comments
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Muhammad.Yousaf
Apr 28, 2016 04:12pm
Wonder full scenario drawn by Dawn, Handover as he demanded, Because life is priceless.take care.
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Muhammad Yousaf
Apr 28, 2016 04:14pm
Wonderfull scenario drawn by Dawn, Hand over as he demanded , Because life is priceless. Think different, think clean.
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ConPer
Apr 28, 2016 04:25pm
I'll step on the accelerator while simultaneously pushing back my seat and bend down
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SABIR UL ISLAM
Apr 28, 2016 04:30pm
I would politely role down the window and nicely ask the fellow how i could help him :P
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Saad ibnul hasan
Apr 28, 2016 04:38pm
Very good and informative experience to handle the situation.
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Saad ibnul hasan
Apr 28, 2016 04:37pm
Very informative
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Malik Mohammad Zaheer
Apr 28, 2016 04:44pm
Its indeed a great game/exercise. My only advise or comment is that keep the ultimate aim in consideration. You need to be safe and alive. Money and valuables can be earned and bought later. This can only be done if one is alive. So stay ALIVE only this matters for you, your friends, your loved ones and above all your immediate family.
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Asif Yaqoob
Apr 28, 2016 04:45pm
Step on the accelerator and run away as quickly as possible
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Dr. Muhammad Iqbal
Apr 28, 2016 04:52pm
I was in this situation once and we put the accelerator and made him fall of the bike and I took off as fast as I could. Actually this can only work when there is one guy on the bike because he can either use the weapon or ride the bike but with two people on the bike it can be dangerous.
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azhar mehmood
Apr 28, 2016 05:12pm
Do according to situation and always remember every thing you can get again except Life.
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Liberal Fascist
Apr 28, 2016 05:20pm
@AKS then you are 100% killed by a crossing vehicle,in case of Robber you have 100% chance to survive,never jump a red light never ever,the crashes are so horrific you cannot see the victims and will never forget that if you are involved mostly people die on the spot
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Syed Muzaffar Ahmed
Apr 28, 2016 05:36pm
Very Good and informative... We should act as per the situation keeping in mind the risk
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imi
Apr 28, 2016 05:39pm
Avoid going to such areas. Be calm, try and remember as much as possible about attckers actions and sourrounding etc. Do not react if you are not sure that you can escape. Report the matter to LEA's. NEVER PANIC . Always pray to GOD for protection before you enter the car. GOD BLESS US ALL.....!!!!!
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Sheikh Zubair Ahmed
Apr 28, 2016 05:44pm
To give away your valuable is always the best thing to do at that time but if you are sure that you can run away with your 1800cc+ car like bullet and escaped successfully then you have to choose this option... if they trapped you badly, Surrender!
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S.W
Apr 28, 2016 05:44pm
My Question is what if we have nothing valuable at time to give to robber?
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tyrone fernandes
Apr 28, 2016 05:44pm
This has happened to me. gave them what they asked for.
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Syed Muzaffar Ahmed
Apr 28, 2016 05:48pm
It is very good information for any one.
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Sadia Safdar
Apr 28, 2016 05:49pm
Will not stop at the signal but if the scenario cannot be changed than I'll hand over whatever he asks for
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Abdul Quddus
Apr 28, 2016 05:51pm
I will fight for my life and money.
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zain
Apr 28, 2016 05:52pm
I would agree with the majority.. Just handover and wait for them to leave
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Abdul Quddus
Apr 28, 2016 05:54pm
Seriously, Nawaz Govt should lift ban on arm license. Arms has become basic need.
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Rafique
Apr 28, 2016 06:01pm
I will be more vigilance approaching to the stop light any suspicious activity or person I will not stop and try my best to avoid. It will be more safer to stay in the crowded place then alone.
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Null
Apr 28, 2016 06:02pm
I wont stop and i'll drive like crazy huh!
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hasan
Apr 28, 2016 06:03pm
While this is a must read for all Karachiites, it's sad that this is a reality for most Pakistanis. We need more working, regularly maintained, high-quality CCTVs monitoring all dark alleys and roads.
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Null
Apr 28, 2016 06:07pm
kudos to creative team,great idea,thrilling and very informative
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Kumail Motiani
Apr 28, 2016 06:14pm
I will give that person what they want. But I feel sorry him/her for ruining there lives like this.
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KAMAL KHAN
Apr 28, 2016 06:49pm
I WOULD RATHER DIE THAN OBEY
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M.Ali Qaiyum
Apr 28, 2016 06:56pm
@KAMAL KHAN : Totally agree with you
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M.Ali Qaiyum
Apr 28, 2016 06:57pm
One should not give in to such lot
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Osama Khalid
Apr 28, 2016 07:02pm
Simply roll down my window because won't get life back if lost
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Rmohan
Apr 28, 2016 07:03pm
if alone shall try to grab his hand and accelerate...if others are inside... :( :(
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Arif
Apr 28, 2016 07:08pm
Died after making futile excuses about my phone not being with me and then asking for sim card :(
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wellwisher
Apr 28, 2016 07:11pm
turn right, step on accelerator, don,t roll down window
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Abdul Quddus Khan
Apr 28, 2016 07:14pm
Step on the accelerator
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Ghulam Mehdi
Apr 28, 2016 07:21pm
Definitely Step on the accelerator.
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Najeeb
Apr 28, 2016 07:36pm
Roll down window and hand him over what ever he asks for. Life is much precious.
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Summit
Apr 28, 2016 07:57pm
I have Done it ! :))
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Cydra Irfan
Apr 28, 2016 07:58pm
@Hamid it's not even easy for the snatcher to just hit us precisely, well because he is not a trained professional! Speed up the car is the best option
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UmAr Aslam
Apr 28, 2016 07:58pm
a good advice indeed...
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Adil Ali
Apr 28, 2016 08:03pm
Sick and tired of living in fear. These hoodlums mug you because they face no resistance. I will carry a side arm and wear a BP vest If I ever go out on the streets of Karachi at night.
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zo
Apr 28, 2016 08:06pm
Since when do you wait for a signal to turn green in Karachi at 2300 on a dimly lit road devoid of cars? Are you from Islamabad?
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z
Apr 28, 2016 08:26pm
i'll prolly take out my own gun ; )
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Tariq
Apr 28, 2016 08:27pm
@KAMAL KHAN agree.....
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Ali Saud
Apr 28, 2016 08:49pm
Life is important than cash and valuables. If CCTV has captured anything then I will wait for law to come in action. Most important, I am safe and I can earn all these again.
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human
Apr 28, 2016 09:01pm
good one...
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Muhammad Uzair
Apr 28, 2016 09:24pm
Try to hold on your phone and if he insists. Just give the damn phone also :P
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Mubashir
Apr 28, 2016 09:26pm
Got Shot in my shoulder.
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Adi Viccaji
Apr 28, 2016 09:41pm
Drive away as fast as you can.
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Ahmed Amin
Apr 28, 2016 09:44pm
Pull out my own gun.
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Bilal
Apr 28, 2016 10:37pm
Life is given once, no need to be oversmart
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Bilal
Apr 28, 2016 10:37pm
life is too short for adventures.
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iram
Apr 28, 2016 11:09pm
One's life is worth more than money or things. The person holding me up has probably psyched himself up and has to go through with it. He is probably nervous and jittery so confrontation is a bad idea.
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Zain
Apr 28, 2016 11:32pm
Its funny how this ends with Congratulations! XD
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Toko-Shagot
Apr 28, 2016 11:36pm
Will fight back with my bare humble hands!
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Amin
Apr 29, 2016 01:29am
I was riding the bike :-D
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imran altaf
Apr 29, 2016 01:31am
The Pakistan today has been shaped by corrupt politics so our people are very desperate to survive, hence the need to steal, hence I know this so I will not stop at any signal when dark.
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Abrar
Apr 29, 2016 01:40am
If I survive, I am not a looser.
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abbas
Apr 29, 2016 01:53am
step on the accelerator by the way i don't stop the car on signals late night
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Imran A.
Apr 29, 2016 01:55am
At 3 a.m. in the morning, a rogue driver tried to corner my car to a dead end when I was trying to merge on the main road. I rapidly slowed down preventing his move. Since I had a good car, I pressed on the gas and crossed his car before he could do anything. He started following me, when he was close behind me, I slammed on the breaks. He had no choice but to slam on his breaks too as a knee jerk reaction. There was no accident, but I think I scared him because he didn't know what else I was capable of doing and he took off at the next exit.
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Hassan Sheikh
Apr 29, 2016 01:55am
I will open the door instead and then step on the accelerator. Unless the gun man is a skilled shooter chance are I should be able to make it :)
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Sohail
Apr 29, 2016 03:00am
I would like to see him first if he is a looser by his look I'm not give him anything and will push the accelerator quickly! But if.....!!
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AbbasToronto
Apr 29, 2016 03:56am
Calmly roll down the window. Calmly get pick up your gun from passenger seat. Calmly put a bullet through his stomach. Calmly roll the window up. Calmly drive away.
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Adam
Apr 29, 2016 04:20am
Better carry a gun and shoot b4 he shoots u Its a wild wild west
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imran Khan
Apr 29, 2016 04:37am
good insight on real world of Pakistan and especially karachi
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Pakistani
Apr 29, 2016 06:27am
Shoot him first.
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Naila yousaf
Apr 29, 2016 08:09am
roll down window
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Anuj
Apr 29, 2016 08:43am
I died a miserable death! Only criminals have a good time here.
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Asher
Apr 29, 2016 08:43am
If you are with your family and kids are sitting behind, you didn't remember anything or any security precautions, you are just obeying their orders. so bad na... :(
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Shareef Gondal
Apr 29, 2016 08:49am
I should have that type of car that can control everything herself. I just need to give her instructions.
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Arshad
Apr 29, 2016 08:50am
It was a dark street and my car broke down. I called my assistant to come. Suddenly, I saw a gun pointing to my tummy, "Yeh cell mujhe day dain". I replied, "Lo bhai jaan". The guy sitting at front of motorbike took the car keys and all ended happily in 15 seconds. My advice: Do Nothing. Comply and go home.
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Bloop
Apr 29, 2016 09:02am
"Accidentally" drop your phone due to the nervousness, step on the gas when he bends over to pick it up.
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Mikail
Apr 29, 2016 09:33am
The reality, supported by statistics in Pakistan, is that irrespespective of what instructions or sound advice that you follow, sometimes it just doesn't cut it. Not all criminals have a mindset that we can fathom and try to reason with or outsmart. Every second of every minute, of every hour, we roll the dice as far as risk and uncertainty is concerned.
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ahmad
Apr 29, 2016 09:51am
vigilance
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Amjad
Apr 29, 2016 10:21am
Once I was caught in the same situation but I was walking alongside a road, when he asked me to hand over my mobile, I realized he was a young kid and looked afraid because that was a bussy road there were few other people following me. I eventually steped back and shouted and he ran away on a bike waiting ahead of him.
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Muhammad
Apr 29, 2016 10:31am
God forbade if someone caught up in such a horrible situation. Neverthless, if it happen no need to get in panic and keep hold on your nerves. Follow the instructions of the robber because he is equiped with arms and you are with empty hands. Mobile, watch and money are not important than your life, becasue all those robed things could be bought again but not life. Most of the robers usually have no temprament and do not like uncooperative behavoiur and react immediatly otherwise. In most of the reported cases one thing is common, who argued with with the robber or tried to escap from the scene have not had a good end. However, if you are brave enoguh and have no fear from death than go ahead and take your chance by accelarating the carry :P
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Nasirullah khan
Apr 29, 2016 10:38am
Time of the essence is to do what the dacoits demands. Don't be over clever at that time as your life is on risk. No is important than life so safe your life not your belongings.
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Muaz Ahmad
Apr 29, 2016 10:40am
I died while running after giving him money once. But thats not true always, as i have escaped once during mobile snatching on gun point. Thanks God i am still alive.
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Nasirullah khan
Apr 29, 2016 10:47am
The essence of time is to do that for which the dacoit is demanding. Don't show your skills to escape from the scene as your life is on risk at that moment. Don't argue with the kidnappers. Nothing is more important than life, if your live is safe you can gain all your belongings again.
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Akhtar Ali
Apr 29, 2016 10:54am
To tell you the truth " I don't stop at crossing after 11pm in Karachi "
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Hassaan Aslam
Apr 29, 2016 11:08am
I will stop imagining the situation.
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muhammad.yousaf
Apr 29, 2016 11:08am
Wonder full snerio drawn by dawn, I hand over all as he demand ,Because life is priceless. Think different &Think clean.
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Farrukh Arshad
Apr 29, 2016 11:12am
I died
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muhammad.yousaf
Apr 29, 2016 11:12am
Wonder full senerio drawn by dawn,I hand over as his demand, Because life if priceless. Think diffirent & think clean.
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ALI
Apr 29, 2016 11:14am
I would a Jack Bauer on him simple
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Awais
Apr 29, 2016 11:29am
Not that true. Criminals in pk have bikes both of which are either 70cc or 125cc, both of which are no match for a car which can launch much quicker. Now he has a gun and can catch you for a split second...Now heres what you do, you press hard on the brakes(abs will benefit here) ram him (If you can change the velocity vector of the bike itll fall off) or turn hard, bikes cant turn fast enough without crazy leaning and unless the criminal is francis they will have to slow down to turn. cars have differentials which can make it easy to escape if are a pro driver in a sense.
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Hameed
Apr 29, 2016 12:54pm
How do we know this game wasn't created by criminals so we do what they want? We might be playing right into their hands! Lean forward while scrolling down your window and driving off! I say!
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kk
Apr 29, 2016 02:26pm
made to the end
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Ali
Apr 29, 2016 03:45pm
One of my friend was Shot dead three weeks ago in Gujranwala while trying to mess with the snatchers!! He was only 28... All left now is his grieving family who lost a young son. He should have complied with them. Money and cars will come again to you but you only live once.
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Akif
Apr 29, 2016 05:49pm
never keep a debit card or an expensive mobile with yourself unless its necessary.
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Fasih
Apr 29, 2016 08:30pm
I'd not stop at signal in the first place. Even If I do, n they come n my window is closed n they point a gun... I'd instantly shift my seat backwards n in the very moment will hit the accelerator of my beast. N then bhurraa! But if someone is wd me, i'd consider doing as asked even if i have to give away all. Coz things matter as long as u r alive.
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sohail
Apr 29, 2016 10:30pm
by the way, very nice illustrations! pure pleasure to see this kind of work at DAWN.
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