Motorists in Pretoria East are being warned to exercise heightened caution as incidents of vehicle remote jamming have significantly increased, particularly in shopping mall parking lots and other busy public spaces.
According to recent reports, the Mooikloof area has become a hotspot for this type of criminal activity. Bull Security spokesperson, French Jooste, confirmed a noticeable surge in vehicle jamming cases around shopping centres in the region.
How the Jamming Works
“These criminals typically remain in their cars within the parking areas, waiting for drivers to exit their vehicles,” Jooste explained. “As soon as the motorist walks away, they activate a jamming device that blocks the signal from the car’s remote locking system. This results in the vehicle remaining unlocked, unbeknownst to the driver.”
Double-Check Your Locks
Jooste emphasized the importance of physically checking that car doors are locked before leaving the vehicle. “If you struggle to lock your car, alert the security personnel immediately, and never leave valuables inside, as it makes your car a target for theft,” he warned.
Types of Jamming Devices Used
The jamming devices used in these crimes vary in complexity—from something as simple as a remote for an electric gate to more advanced equipment. These tools interfere with the vehicle’s locking signal, creating “noise” that prevents the remote from communicating with the car. This leaves vehicles unlocked, even though the owner believes otherwise.
Manual Locking and Keyless Entry Tips
To mitigate the risk, Jooste advises motorists to manually lock their cars whenever possible. “If your car has keyless entry, take the time to understand where the locking sensor is located on the handle. You can usually avoid triggering the unlock function by keeping your hand away from the sensor while pulling the handle to check.”
Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions
He also highlighted the importance of avoiding distractions such as mobile phones or attending to children while locking the vehicle. “Always be fully aware of your surroundings, and ensure your vehicle is securely locked before walking away,” he said.
Park Smart and Stay Alert
Jooste added that choosing a well-lit and visible parking spot, ideally monitored by security cameras, can help deter criminals. However, he also noted that some perpetrators are bold enough to commit thefts despite visible surveillance.
Report Suspicious Activity
Motorists are strongly encouraged to remain vigilant, ensure their vehicles are locked, and report any suspicious behavior to shopping centre management or on-site security teams immediately. By acting quickly and sharing information, you not only help protect your own property but also contribute to the safety of others in the community. Working together with security personnel and staying alert can significantly reduce the chances of falling victim to these crimes.
Related article: See What a Car Remote Jammer Looks Like: The Equipment Fueling South Africa’s Vehicle Theft Syndicates
