HIJACKERS TARGET GAUTENG AS STOLEN CAR DEMAND RISES

GAUTENG has the highest number of hijackings, highlighting the seriousness of the crime in the province, which accounts for nearly half of all reported cases. This was revealed in data showing a sharp increase in incidents involving popular car brands.

- SIFISO MAHLANGU

According to figures from SAPS, an average of 66 cars are forcefully taken from drivers each day, marking a significant rise from levels seen before the COVID-19 pandemic. This alarming trend highlights the growing sophistication and boldness of criminal networks targeting motorists.

The Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal also report elevated hijacking rates, each contributing approximately 14% to the national total. It's important to note that these numbers specifically refer to hijackings involving threats or violence; the number of total vehicle thefts, including non-violent ones, exceeds 40000 annually. Security experts and insurance companies have been warning of this surge.

Fidelity Services Group noted earlier this year that the first half of 2024 would likely see a rise in hijackings.