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Hijackers Target New Vehicles at High-Risk Times: Are You in Danger?
Vehicle hijackings are on the rise in South Africa, with criminals becoming increasingly brazen in their tactics. According to the latest Tracker Vehicle Crime Index for July to December 2024, hijackings now account for 56% of all vehicle-related crimes, surpassing thefts, which make up 44%. This alarming trend highlights the need for heightened awareness and proactive security measures to protect against this growing threat.
Business Vehicles at Greater Risk
Business-owned vehicles are particularly vulnerable, facing twice the risk of hijacking compared to theft nationwide. Gauteng accounts for more than half of these incidents, while the risk is even higher in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape, where business vehicles are four and eight times more likely to be hijacked, respectively.
The high value of cargo and the ease of intercepting delivery vehicles in transit make them prime targets for criminals. In addition to seizing the vehicle, hijackers often gain access to the goods being transported and the driver’s personal belongings.
Regional Trends in Personal Vehicle Crime
While personal vehicles face an equal risk of hijacking and theft on a national scale, regional variations exist. In Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, vehicle theft surpasses hijacking, accounting for 52% and 61% of incidents, respectively. However, in the Western Cape, personal vehicles are twice as likely to be hijacked as stolen, and in the Eastern Cape, they are four times more likely to be hijacked.
Business-owned vehicles are not only 33% more likely to be hijacked than personal vehicles but also face a 56% higher overall risk of vehicle crime.
Crime Hotspots and Timing
Hijackings peak on Fridays between 16:00 and 21:00, while vehicle theft is more prevalent on Saturdays during the same time frame. Criminals often target busy roads with heavy traffic and easy escape routes, making drivers vulnerable when stuck in traffic. This risk increases during load shedding, as traffic volume rises and visibility drops, creating ideal conditions for hijackers to strike.
Criminals can also strike when vehicles are stopped, such as at truck stops, in residential driveways, or during deliveries.
Why Hijackings Are on the Rise
Duma Ngcobo, Tracker’s Chief Operating Officer, attributes the increase in hijackings to the efficiency of the crime for perpetrators. “Hijacking, while terrifying to the victim, can be a highly efficient crime for perpetrators, which has led to its rising occurrence,” he said. “As vehicle owners become more aware of early warning tools and free tracking apps, it is becoming increasingly difficult for criminals to steal a vehicle without detection. A hijacking, however, allows criminals immediate access to the vehicle and its contents, without needing to override tracking technology.”
Five Ways to Protect Yourself from Hijackers
- Stay Alert in Your Driveway: Don’t park directly in your driveway—wait in the street until your gate opens. Ensure your driveway is well-lit, especially at night.
- Survey the Street: When approaching home, turn off the radio and scan the street for suspicious activity. If you feel uneasy or see unfamiliar people, drive around the block.
- Check for Followers: Be extra vigilant when leaving malls, work, or heading home late. Keep emergency contacts, like your security provider and SAPS, handy if you suspect you’re being followed.
- Be Cautious When Parking: Look around before exiting your vehicle and avoid sitting inside without paying attention to your surroundings. Don’t sleep in your car to stay alert.
- Stay Aware Entering Your Car: Have your keys ready, lock doors immediately, and keep windows closed. Store valuables in the boot, out of sight.
With hijackings on the rise, it is crucial to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your vehicle. By staying alert, adopting advanced security measures, and following expert advice, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to vehicle-related crime. As criminals become more sophisticated, awareness and preparedness are your best defenses.
{Source The South Africa}
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