When it comes to the South African suburb with the highest number of reported hijackings, Ivory Park in Midrand, Gauteng, has emerged as the area most affected in the first quarter of 2025. The latest data from the South African Police Service (SAPS) confirms that Ivory Park leads the nation in hijacking incidents during this period, highlighting a concerning crime trend within Gauteng’s boundaries.
Despite a national decrease in hijackings, the numbers remain uncomfortably high, with Ivory Park standing out as a key hijacking hotspot in Gauteng. This article explores the latest crime statistics, discusses the vehicles most targeted, and examines efforts to curb this alarming phenomenon.
Ivory Park: The South African Suburb With the Highest Number of Reported Hijackings and Why It’s a Gauteng Hotspot
According to SAPS’ quarterly crime report for the fourth quarter of 2024/25 (January to March 2025), Ivory Park recorded 67 hijackings, making it the leading South African suburb with the highest number of reported hijackings. This translates to nearly one hijacking every day in the suburb, home to over 182,000 residents.
Ivory Park’s location in Midrand and proximity to major transport corridors contribute to its vulnerability. The suburb is part of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality and borders the township of Tembisa in the City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality — two areas often linked to crime syndicates exploiting these densely populated urban spaces.
Gauteng province reported 2,488 hijackings over this period, accounting for 55% of all vehicle hijackings nationwide. Other notable hijacking hotspots in Gauteng include Mamelodi East, Akasia, Jabulani, and Moroka.
National Hijacking Overview: Declines and Persisting Risks
While the number of hijackings nationally has decreased by 15.1% year-on-year, the SAPS recorded 4,533 vehicles hijacked in the first quarter of 2025 alone, averaging roughly 50 vehicles stolen daily. The Victims of Crime (VoC) survey reveals that many incidents go unreported, with an estimated daily hijacking rate of 222.
Several provinces showed marked declines, including Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape, Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape. However, the North West province saw an increase in hijackings during the same period.
Vehicles Targeted in Hijacking Hotspots in Gauteng
Wahl Bartmann, CEO of Fidelity Group, explains that hijacking remains largely a business driven by demand for vehicle parts and resale:
“Certain vehicle brands like Toyota, Volkswagen, and Ford have traditionally been targeted due to their high resale value. More recently, Chinese automakers such as Haval and Chery have also become frequent targets.”
Data from SAPS shows that sedans, hatchbacks, and coupes accounted for 44% of hijacked vehicles, with bakkies and panel vans making up 33%. Popular models targeted include:
- VW Polo
- Toyota Hilux
- Ford Ranger
- Toyota Corolla Cross
- Toyota Fortuner
- Haval Jolion
- Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
- Haval H6
- Chery Tiggo 7 Pro
Other Gauteng Hijacking Hotspots to Watch
Aside from Ivory Park, other suburbs registering significant hijacking numbers include Mamelodi East (65 incidents), Akasia, Jabulani (which saw a 119% increase year-on-year), and Moroka. KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape also have known hotspots, such as Umlazi and Delft, respectively.
Prevention Tips: How Drivers Can Stay Safe
Practical measures to minimise hijacking risks while commuting in high-risk areas like Midrand:
- Avoid driving alone, especially during early morning or late evening hours.
- Keep car doors locked and windows rolled up at all times.
- Be vigilant at traffic lights and stop signs; avoid stopping too close to the vehicle in front.
- Use well-lit and populated routes, even if they take longer.
- Install vehicle tracking and anti-theft devices.
- Report suspicious behaviour immediately to the police or private security.
Addressing Hijacking in Ivory Park and Gauteng’s Hotspots
Ivory Park’s status as the South African suburb with the highest number of reported hijackings underscores the ongoing challenge Gauteng faces in combating vehicle crime. While overall numbers have declined, daily hijackings remain a serious concern.
Combating this crime requires coordinated efforts between law enforcement, private security, and community engagement. Residents are urged to stay alert, adopt preventative safety measures, and report suspicious behaviour.
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