South Africa is grappling with a troubling increase in vehicle hijackings, with certain car models being particularly vulnerable to this alarming trend. Recent statistics released by Tracker South Africa for the first half of 2024 shine a light on the twelve car models targeted by thieves.

The 12 Most Hijacked Cars in South Africa

Data indicates that specific vehicle models are at a heightened risk of being hijacked, primarily due to their popularity and the high demand for their parts in illegal markets. The following vehicles are the most susceptible to theft:

Ford Ranger
Hyundai i20
Nissan NP200
Toyota Corolla Cross
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Etios
Toyota Fortuner (GD6 and D4D models)
Toyota Hilux (GD6 and D4D models)
Toyota Prado
Toyota Land Cruiser
Toyota RAV4
Volkswagen Polo (particularly hatchback variants)

These vehicles are favored by hijackers not only for their desirability but also for the ease with which they can be resold or dismantled for parts.

The Hidden Market for Stolen Car Parts

Beyond the complete vehicles, the demand for specific car parts has created a lucrative underground market. According to internal data from MiWay Insurance, components such as wheels, batteries, sound systems, mirrors, and headlights are among the most frequently stolen accessories. The high resale value and the relative simplicity of concealing these items contribute to their appeal among thieves.

“Despite the implementation of various safety measures, carjackers are continuously adapting their tactics,” explains Siyakha Masiye, a representative from MiWay. This ongoing evolution of strategies complicates efforts by authorities to track stolen parts, which often make their way into illegal repair shops, resulting in an estimated annual revenue of R442 million for this underground trade.

Mechanics and the Black Market

The demand for vehicle parts has also entangled some dishonest mechanics in the illegal trade. Reports have surfaced indicating that during vehicle repairs, certain mechanics replace authentic parts with counterfeit or inferior ones, profiting from the resale of the stolen components. This practice not only perpetuates the demand for stolen goods but also raises concerns about the safety and reliability of vehicles that have undergone such repairs.

The types of parts that are frequently targeted include airbags, tailgates, wheels, and tires. As the market for these stolen items continues to thrive, the repercussions for car owners and the broader community become increasingly severe.

Rising Threat and Preventative Measures

The escalating frequency of hijackings poses a significant threat to vehicle owners across the nation. This issue raises the question: what measures should be taken to address this growing crisis?

Enhanced Security Features: Automakers could implement more advanced security measures in their vehicles, such as improved tracking systems and anti-theft technologies, to deter hijackers.

Community Awareness Programs: Educating the public about the dangers of carjackings and promoting safe parking habits could help reduce the risk.

Increased Police Patrols: Greater police visibility in high-risk areas could serve as a deterrent and improve response times to incidents of hijacking.

Collaboration with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies could play a role by providing incentives for car owners who invest in additional security features or tracking systems.

As vehicle hijackings continue to pose a significant threat in South Africa, it is imperative that both individuals and authorities work together to develop effective strategies to combat this issue. By staying informed and proactive, we can collectively strive to reduce the risk of hijackings and protect our communities.