Vehicle Hijacking Surge in SA: Cars and Areas Most Targeted by Criminals

Vehicle Hijacking Surge in SA: Most Hijacked Cars and Hijack Hotspots

Vehicle hijacking has surged dramatically across South Africa, with alarming shifts toward targeting business-owned vehicles, as indicated by the latest crime statistics. The growing sophistication of criminal syndicates and increasing demand for high-value goods transported by trucks and delivery vans have contributed to the rise in these violent crimes.

Alarming Vehicle Crime Statistics in 2024

Hijacking dominates vehicle crime, accounting for 54% of such incidents in the first half of 2024. While theft still occurs, hijacking is more prevalent due to its profitability and quick execution. Business-owned vehicles, such as cargo trucks and courier vans, are disproportionately targeted, reflecting an escalation in organized crime.

Business-Owned Vehicles: Prime Targets

The Eastern and Western Cape have witnessed significant increases in business vehicle hijackings. In the Eastern Cape, business vehicles are nine times more likely to be hijacked than stolen, and they face a 43% higher risk of crime than personal vehicles. A similar trend emerges in the Western Cape, where business vehicles are four times more likely to be hijacked than stolen. This shift correlates with the increased value of transported goods, making delivery trucks lucrative targets for syndicates.

The rise in hijackings has led courier companies, like The Courier Guy, to invest heavily in security, including hiring armed escorts. These escalating security costs are shrinking profit margins, posing operational challenges for logistics firms.

Spike in Road Freight Hijackings

According to the Road Freight Association (RFA), hijacking incidents in the trucking sector rose by 50% in 2023, with 2024 seeing even worse figures. In June alone, there were approximately 65 hijackings per day, compared to less than 20 per day in 2022. The RFA warns that criminals are operating with mafia-like tactics, not only seizing vehicles but also targeting the valuable cargo they carry.

Private Vehicles Still at Risk

While business vehicles are heavily targeted, private vehicle owners are not spared. Gauteng remains a hotspot, with 51% of all hijackings in South Africa occurring in this province. Here is a list of a few of the top hijack hotspots.

• Gauteng: Eldorado Park, Ivory Park, and Midrand
• KwaZulu-Natal: Mariannhill and Umlazi
• Western Cape: Delft, Nyanga, and Philippi East

Fridays between 15:00 and 22:00 are the riskiest times for hijackings, while Saturdays see a higher occurrence of vehicle thefts.

Most Hijacked Vehicles in South Africa

Popular car brands like Toyota, Ford, and Volkswagen remain primary targets due to their demand in both South Africa and neighboring countries. Specific models frequently hijacked include:

• Toyota Hilux (GD6, D4D)
• Toyota Fortuner (GD6, D4D)
• Toyota Corolla Cross
• Ford Ranger
• VW Polo (especially hatchbacks)
• Hyundai i20
• Nissan NP200

These vehicles are often stolen for resale or dismantled for spare parts.

The Role of Technology in Hijacking

As technology evolves, so do the methods used by criminals. Santam’s Marius Kemp highlights that criminals exploit keyless entry systems through relay and canvas attacks. These high-tech strategies allow them to intercept signals from key fobs and unlock vehicles remotely. Car jamming, where criminals block locking signals, has also become a common practice.

Tips for Staying Safe

To minimize the risk of vehicle hijacking or theft, vehicle owners should take the following precautions:

• Disable keyless entry when possible to prevent signal interception.
• Install Smash-and-Grab film on windows and keep them closed at traffic lights.
• Park in secure areas, such as garages or paid parking lots.
• Use signal-blocking pouches to store key fobs and prevent relay attacks.
• Double-check that doors are locked manually.
• Avoid carrying valuables in the vehicle or leaving them visible.
• Plan alternative routes to bypass known hijacking hotspots.

Businesses should consider equipping their fleet with tracking devices and collaborating with law enforcement for escort services in high-risk areas.

The surge in vehicle hijacking across South Africa highlights the growing sophistication of organized crime and the vulnerabilities of both business and private vehicle owners. While business vehicles are at greater risk due to the value of transported goods, personal vehicle owners in certain areas also face significant threats. Taking proactive security measures and staying informed about the latest trends in vehicle crime can help reduce the risks associated with this growing menace.