The Eastern Cape Transport Department has strongly condemned the rising trend of criminals targeting state vehicles in the province. During the first seven weeks of 2025, nine government-owned vehicles have been stolen, continuing a disturbing trend that saw 55 vehicles taken in 2024. Of these, 48 were hijacked.
Concerning Statistics and Impact
Unathi Binqose, the spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Transport Department, expressed deep concern, highlighting that this amounts to nearly one vehicle being stolen or hijacked per week, which is a significant security issue. The majority of these crimes have occurred in the OR Tambo District, which includes areas like Libode, Mthatha, Ngcobo, Ngqeleni, and Qumbu.
State Vehicles Targeted
The vehicles targeted in these crimes are mostly Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max bakkies, which make up a large portion of the provincial government fleet, as well as minibus taxis. Despite these losses, authorities have managed to recover 26 of the 55 stolen vehicles, but many are still unaccounted for.
The Continued Trend in 2025
Binqose expressed further alarm that the trend of vehicle theft continues into 2025, with nine government vehicles already stolen in just over a month. “The situation remains dire,” said Binqose, stressing the need for action to curb the crime.
Premier Mabuyane Speaks Out
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, in his State of the Province Address, acknowledged the severity of the issue, revealing that government officials are now fearful of travelling in areas heavily affected by these thefts. The continued targeting of state vehicles is also impacting the delivery of essential services to residents.
Call for Law Enforcement Action
In response, Mabuyane called on law enforcement to take swift and effective action to bring the criminals behind these thefts to justice. Binqose commended the Premier for bringing attention to the issue in his address, noting that this heightened focus is a crucial step toward addressing the crisis.
The Eastern Cape authorities are urging all sectors of the community to work together to combat the rise in vehicle theft, ensuring that state vehicles and the safety of government workers are prioritised.
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