Inspector's Field Manual - Gani

Inspector's Field Manual
"Stockholm Syndrome" starts to develop. As this happens you will be less likely to be harmed. Remember
transference is a normal occurrence. You will not be able to avoid it. It is natural and has kept many hostages
alive.
3. Don't speak unless spoken to and then only when necessary - try not to appear hostile but do not be
overly friendly or phony.
4. Try to rest - After things settle down, try to get as much rest as possible without turning your back on
your captor.
5. Don't make suggestions - This is very important. If your suggestion is used and something goes
wrong, your captor may feel that you planned it that way to trick him. At that point there is the danger that he or
she may begin identifying you as his or her enemy rather than a bystander caught in the middle (negative
transference).
6. Escape: Should you or shouldn't you? - Simply stated, don't try to escape unless you are absolutely sure
you will be successful. If you are recaptured violence may be used to "teach the others a lesson".
7. Special medication or aid - If there are any hostages who require special medication or aid, inform
your captors. Be matter of fact about it and do not pester them. Most captors do not want anyone to die on their
hands or they would not have taken hostages in the first place.
8. Be observant - you may be released or escape and can help the police - Try to remember everything
that you see and hear. Memorize the descriptions of your captors, what names they use and how they refer to
each other. What kind of weapons or other equipment do they have? Where are the hostages being kept? Has a
routine been established for eating and/or sleeping? Finally, try to recall the number and identities or
descriptions of the other hostages as well.
9. Be prepared to answer the police on the phone - If you are permitted to answer the phone, be prepared
to answer questions with "yes" or "no" responses. If the captor is listening in try to advise the police by saying
something like, "Don't lie to us because he (or she) can hear what you're saying". If what you are made to tell the
police is untrue, make reference to some relative or factual incident in an incorrect manner so that the police
know that you are under duress. For example, you can tip the police off by saying, "My brother will handle the
bills", when in fact, you do not have a brother.
10. Don't be argumentative - Non-cooperative attitudes with the captors or with other hostages have
brought harm to some hostages in the past. The captor may perceive this behavior as aggression towards him or
her.
11. Treat the captor like royalty - Don't turn your back on your captor unless ordered to. Don't stare at
him or her either. A so called "down the nose look" may bring a violent reaction. Remember, a captor is less
likely to harm someone with whom he or she has eye contact.
12. Be patient - Though it may seem that the police are doing nothing they are working on a plan to get you
out along with the other hostages. Be patient and be prepared to wait.
13. If a rescue comes - If you believe a rescue attempt is taking place or if you hear a noise or shooting, hit
the floor and stay down. Keep your hands on your head and do not make any fast moves. If you are ordered
out, follow the directions quickly with your hands in full view. Be prepared to be frisked by the police.
Remember, they may not be sure about the number of terrorists involved and you don't want to bring about a
reflex reaction by the police if you balk at being frisked. Just submit, its nothing personal.
There are no guarantees, but by following these guidelines over the years, many lives have been saved.
Most of the information is taken from Hostage Cop, by Cap't. Frank Bolz and Edward Hershey, Rawson, Wade
Publishers, NY, 1979. In addition, the Service course outline on Terrorism and Victimization was used.
2.9 Dealing with Attorneys and Other Representatives.