Carjacking of armed FBI special agent in DC casts doubts on agency's expertise

An FBI agent became a victim of an armed carjacking in broad daylight in the US capital Washington, DC, as reported by authorities. 

The agent was driving a blue Chevy Malibu, which had his body armour and radio when it was taken, ABC News said quoting sources. 

The agent was unharmed during the carjacking.

The federal agent was reportedly carjacked at gunpoint in the eastern portion of Capitol Hill near Lincoln Park around 3:45 pm on Wednesday.

The victim promptly notified law enforcement about the incident, leading to the recovery of the vehicle in a different part of the city.

The FBI's Washington field office is actively investigating the incident in collaboration with DC's Metropolitan Police Department Carjacking Task Force. 

While specific details about the two suspects involved were not immediately disclosed, the vehicle was located approximately 25 minutes after the violent encounter.

The carjacking incident sheds light on the concerning trend of motor vehicle theft in Washington, DC, which has witnessed a staggering 93% increase compared to the same period last year, according to local authorities. 

In response to the surge in carjackings, the police are advising drivers to exercise caution by keeping doors locked and windows rolled up while driving in the District of Columbia.

To enhance personal safety, drivers are urged to maintain adequate distance between vehicles, allowing manoeuvrability in case of potential danger. 

Authorities have also cautioned against stopping to assist unknown individuals, emphasising the importance of contacting the police for assistance. 

Additionally, drivers are encouraged to utilise the centre lane to make it more challenging for carjackers to approach their vehicles, reflecting the city's proactive measures to address the rising threat of carjackings.