Ever since criminals figured out that you can exchange another human being for money, kidnappings are a major crime in the world.
Police officers are flummoxed by the number of kidnapping cases and even though they are on the decline, it still helps to know how to conduct yourself in case you ever get nabbed.
Officer Daniel Musau at the Machakos Police station tells how to ensure that the ordeal is a less stressful one. Some people get loud, scream and kick at their attacker.
This is not advisable, particularly if multiple assailants are involved and you are in a secluded place with no witnesses around.
They may decide to unburden themselves by killing you. Instead, try and be calm. Getting your breathing and heart rate under control reduces the amount of adrenalin being produced and enables you to think straight and identify any sounds or signs as to where they might be taking you.
If they didn't take your phone, find a way to put it in silent mode and call for help. Estimate the time you've been in their custody as it may help you to know how far you've been taken.
Remember to always take a pocket knife with you in case you walk late at night. It may help you get free of your restraints.
If you are in the boot of a car, remember that some cars have a handle that enables you to open it from the inside.
Try and initiate a conversation with them because they will find it harder to kill you if they see you as a person with a family to get back to.
Also when conversing, check for signs that they be mentally impaired, if they have a plan or are making things up or if they had a different idea and are in way deeper than they anticipated.
Most kidnappers are not criminal masterminds, they are just desperate and looking for a quick score. Always be prepared by taking self-defense classes. You never know when they might save your life.