Nowadays terrorists may strike almost everywhere, and there is a chance you might be subjected to some form of terrorist attack. The events of September 11, 2001 – terrible though they undoubtedly were – formed a highly successful terrorist plan. It woke the world up to the power of terrorism and the terrorist’s total disregard for innocent people.
WHAT IS HIJACKING AND HOW TO DEAL WITH
Taking control of a vehicle to use as a weapon of destruction is not, strictly speaking, hijacking. Hijacking assumes that the terrorists have demands, and have chosen passenger vehicle to hostages as a tool of negotiation to either attain those demands or to gain publicity for them. In a 9/11 –style attack, you can do no better than the brave passengers of United Airlines Flight 93, and try your best to overpower your attackers. There is literally nothing to lose.
World governments never give in to hijackers’ demands and desired results are rarely attained. This leaves hijacked passengers and crews to undergo long periods of high stress – often resulting in eventual release, but occasionally in death.
This is a very tough survival challenge, but the basics are the same, and you will benefit from knowledge, confidence, physical and psychological condition, a sense of humour and the will to survive. The usual priorities of protection, location, water and food still apply. Your best personal approach is to adopt as low a profile as possible.
BLENDING IN, AS STRATEGIC MOVEMENT TO SURVIVE
When hijacked, it is vital to assess the hijackers right away and ascertain their political and religious beliefs, their aims, even the actual group they belong to. Generally, you will be told these things early on. If your politics, beliefs or nationality do not conflict with the hijackers’, your chance of surviving are slightly higher than those of someone to whom this does not apply.
If someone is executed to prove a point, the hijackers are more likely to pick someone they dislike. If you are unlucky enough to simply be from the wrong place, avoid attracting attention and hope someone less astute gets noticed. Terrorists often choose victims who make themselves known. Avoid being singled out at all costs.
You can expect to be kept for some time with your hands on your head. Sitting in this position for long periods causes severe pain. Bindings are unpleasant, and also cause severe pain and discomfort. Your only respite is flexing your muscles and expanding your limbs when you get the chance. Never complain or move position, as this will only single you out. Suffer in silence and let other, less knowledgeable detainees take up the issues if they choose to. They may find a sympathetic ear, or begin the selection process of the first victim (or both), but either way you benefit.
IN EXTREMITY POSITION
Despite all your efforts, hijackers may become violent towards you. At this stage, there is very little you can do. If you are absolutely sure you can overpower the terrorists – or you are certain they are about to take your life – then fight. Otherwise, resistance will only make the situation worse, so do you best to take it. Show pain naturally, when it hurts. Showing pain too early can make the aggressor impatient and more violent; trying to show how ‘tough’ you are will just get you beaten to death.
Gaining the respect of your captors through arrogant resistance only happens in movies. If you decide to risk playing games, try to build a relationship; if you can get a food rapport, it often leads to survival. If not, of course, you will be the first victim.
Your bearing will affect the way you are treated. Some people have a ‘military style’ about them; they wal upright, with an air of authority. Avoid this at all costs, as the terrorists, who will be used to the police and military, will assume you are a soldier or undercover operator and eliminate you. On the other hand, slouching and looking concerned will mark you out as an arrogant troublemaker. Being aware of your body language and adjusting it accordingly is a very important skill.
COMMUNICATING WITH TERRORISTS
Communication, or the lack of it, is a difficult area. Your non-verbal communication will begin the process. It is hard to get the balance right; showing hate is as provocative as showing compassion in some situations. Try to look attentive, obedient, and meek. Inevitably, any communication will single you out and defeat the object of keeping a low profile.
Avoid deep eye-to-eye contact, but do not avoid eye contact altogether, as this is antagonistic. Blatantly looking away from your aggressor is as much an act of defiance as staring.
You will probably be unaware of your destination and of the terrorists’ demands. What will be apparent to you is the time you have sent on the ground. Experienced hijackers will insist on hops from airport to airport en route to the destination; these reduce the risk of armed military assault. Before risking armed rescue, the authorities must try all the options, attempt to negotiate a settlement and fully explore the legal and political implications of an armed assault. This all takes time. The decision may involve people from different countries and with opposite views; just getting them together may take three days.
Labels:
Survival
