New Hijacking Trend Plagues South Africa’s Wealthiest Province: Gauteng
South Africa’s wealthiest province, Gauteng, is facing a surge in hijackings, with criminals increasingly targeting motorists on the province’s busiest highways. According to the National Community Police Board of South Africa (NCPS), hijackers have shifted their focus to on- and off-ramps, making these areas major hotspots for this dangerous crime.
Gauteng: South Africa’s Economic Powerhouse
Gauteng, despite being the smallest province in South Africa by land area, plays a crucial role in the country’s economy. Home to both Johannesburg and Pretoria, it contributes over a third of South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This wealth is driven by industries such as mining, manufacturing, retail, and finance, with Gauteng hosting the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), the largest in Africa, and numerous corporate headquarters and financial institutions.
However, the province’s economic success comes with significant challenges, particularly a high crime rate. The concentration of wealth and economic opportunities attracts not only job seekers but also criminal elements, resulting in a notable rise in violent crimes, including hijackings.
Rising Hijacking Incidents in Gauteng
The latest statistics from the South African Police Service (SAPS) highlight a disturbing increase in carjackings across the province. Gauteng recorded 3,010 hijackings in the last reported quarter, accounting for 50.4% of all carjackings in the country during Q3 2023/24. This marks a 14.4% increase in hijackings compared to the previous year, with approximately 66 cars being stolen daily.
The situation is particularly dire in certain areas, with Ivory Park in Ekurhuleni recording the highest number of hijackings, while Jabulani in Johannesburg saw a staggering 300% increase in reported cases compared to last year. These figures underscore the growing threat motorists face in Gauteng, especially on the province’s highways.
Hijacking Hotspots: On- and Off-Ramps
NCPS spokesperson Masechaba Khumalo has warned that on- and off-ramps on Gauteng’s highways have become prime targets for hijackers. These areas are particularly attractive during the week and peak traffic hours when drivers are more likely to be distracted or stuck in slow-moving traffic.
One common tactic used by hijackers is the “tap tap” method. This involves the criminals intentionally bumping into the back of the victim’s car. When the driver stops to assess the damage and exchange insurance details, the hijackers overpower them and steal the vehicle, leaving the victim stranded.
Shift in Hijacking Patterns: Early Morning Attacks
Another alarming trend is the shift in the timing of these hijackings. Data from Naked Insurance reveals that 54% of hijackings now occur between 05:00 AM and 12:00 PM, indicating that criminals are increasingly targeting motorists during the day rather than at night. This shift challenges the common perception that hijackings mainly occur after dark, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance.
Ernest North, co-founder of Naked Insurance, pointed out that this change in pattern requires drivers to be on high alert at all times, as the risk of being targeted is no longer confined to nighttime.
Private Security Response and Targeted Vehicles
In response to the escalating hijacking threat, several private security companies have raised concerns and are now offering anti-hijacking training courses for their officers. These firms, along with insurers like Santam, have noticed a shift in the types of vehicles being targeted by hijackers. There has been a move away from older, low-value vehicles to more expensive double cabs and SUVs, which are highly sought after on the black market.
Private security companies such as Fidelity ADT have observed that hijackers often target specific vehicles to meet the demands of the black market. Popular models include Toyotas, VWs, Fords, and Nissans, which remain in high demand due to their resale value and parts market.
Conclusion: A Growing Threat in Gauteng
The rising hijacking trend in Gauteng poses a serious threat to the province’s residents and visitors. With the province’s highways becoming increasingly dangerous, it is crucial for motorists to remain vigilant, particularly at on- and off-ramps. The shift in hijacking patterns to earlier in the day and the targeting of more valuable vehicles highlight the evolving tactics of criminals, necessitating a proactive response from both law enforcement and the public.
As Gauteng continues to grapple with this surge in hijackings, the need for enhanced security measures, public awareness, and coordinated efforts between the police, private security firms, and the community is more critical than ever.
