Rising Hijacking Trend Targets South Africa’s Wealthiest Province
The National Community Police Board of South Africa (NCPS) has issued a warning about a disturbing hijacking trend: hijackers are increasingly targeting drivers at on- and off-ramps of major highways, particularly in Gauteng, South Africa’s wealthiest province.
Gauteng: The Economic Powerhouse with Rising Crime
Gauteng, known as the economic hub of South Africa, plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy, despite being the smallest province geographically. Home to Johannesburg and Pretoria, Gauteng contributes over a third of South Africa’s GDP. It hosts the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), the largest in Africa, and is a center for major financial institutions, corporate headquarters, and industries like mining, manufacturing, and retail.
However, with wealth comes challenges, particularly in the form of rising crime rates. The concentration of economic opportunities in Gauteng not only attracts job seekers but also criminal elements. Recent crime statistics reveal that Gauteng consistently records the highest crime rates in the country, including violent crimes like murder, armed robbery, and carjacking.
Alarming Increase in Hijackings
The South African Police Service (SAPS) reports a worrying trend in car thefts and hijackings. On average, 66 vehicles are stolen daily in South Africa, marking a 6.5% increase from the previous year. Three provinces have seen significant year-on-year increases in hijackings: Gauteng (14.4%), the Western Cape (14%), and the North West (11%).
Interestingly, KwaZulu-Natal experienced a 17.6% decrease in carjackings, followed by the Eastern Cape with a 5.2% decline. Despite these decreases, Gauteng remains a hotspot, recording 3,010 hijackings in the last reported quarter, accounting for 50.4% of all carjackings in the third quarter of 2023/24. The Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal reported 856 and 834 hijackings, respectively.
Hotspots and New Tactics
Within Gauteng, certain regions are particularly vulnerable. Ivory Park in Ekurhuleni has the highest number of reported hijackings, while Jabulani in Johannesburg saw the most significant increase in cases, with a staggering 300% rise compared to the previous year.
NCPS spokesperson Masechaba Khumalo, speaking to Newzroom Afrika, emphasized that on- and off-ramps in Gauteng have become prime targets for hijackers. He also highlighted the increasing use of the “tap tap” method, where criminals bump into a victim’s vehicle to force them to stop. Once the driver exits their vehicle to assess the damage, they are overpowered, and their car is stolen.
Changing Patterns in Hijackings
Data from Naked Insurance reveals a shift in hijacking patterns. More incidents are now occurring earlier in the day, with 54% of hijackings happening between 5:00 AM and 12:00 PM. This challenges the common perception that hijackings primarily occur after dark. “These statistics remind us that drivers must remain vigilant at all times,” said Ernest North, co-founder of Naked Insurance.
Security Concerns and Market Shifts
Private security companies have expressed growing concern over the rising number of hijackings. Some are now offering specialized anti-hijacking training for their officers. Insurers like Santam, along with private security firms, have noted a shift in the carjacking market. Criminals are moving away from older, low-value vehicles to target more expensive double cabs and SUVs. The demand for popular brands like Toyota, VW, Ford, and Nissan remains high in the black market.
