Latest crime statistics show that crime in Mzansi is not showing signs of letting up especially when it comes to the hijacking of automobiles with certain parts of the country proving to be hotspots. In a report compiled by MasterDrive we will take a brief look at where these hotspot areas are, which cars are most likely to be a target and highlight the fact that an average of 60 vehicles are hijacked every day.
What cars are high risk targets?
Well, I believe that you already know which cars are most likely on the list of vehicles hijacked, but a reminder is always welcome . The Toyota Hilux and Volkswagen Polo continue to dominate the statistics because of their popularity, resale value, and demand for parts. Newcomers to the list include the Kia Picanto ; surprisingly, the Isuzu D-Max has joined the fray in terms of bakkie body styles, along with the Toyota Corolla Cross. The Ford Ranger, meanwhile, is not new to the list, but its numbers are growing as its popularity continues to increase.
Where are the High-risk areas?
In KwaZulu-Natal, there has been an exchange of places between Bhekithemba, which is a frequent hijacking spot because of the influx of informal settlements and quick routes, and Marianhill, which has racked up a bad reputation due to crimes like extortion. Many reports indicate that victims have been boxed in as they enter their households and subsequently hijacked.
The number one hotspot area has gone to Inanda, which has recently made waves for leaving people vulnerable at the numerous stop lights that are found in the southern parts of the area. In the Western Cape, the N2 leading to Cape Town International Airport, nicknamed 'the gauntlet' or 'the road to hell' by locals and the media, remains dangerous. In Gauteng, Alexandra features high.
Can one do something about this to reduce their risk?
Here are some practical steps to reduce your risk as much as possible:
- Drive in the middle lane wherever possible: this creates distance from the road edges and makes it more difficult for criminals operating from the roadside, particularly on high-risk routes.
- Drive anticipating traffic: if an upcoming traffic light is red or there is congestion ahead, adjust your speed to limit the amount of time you stand still on the road.
- Stay alert at intersections and in slow-moving traffic: these are high risk scenarios. Keep windows closed, doors locked and leave enough space between yourself and the vehicle ahead to pull away quickly if needed.
- Vary your routes and times: predictable routines make you easier to profile and follow. There is higher risk of being hijacked between 4pm and 9pm making awareness of peak-risk windows important to safety.
- Trust your instincts: if something feels wrong, it probably is. Do not feel obligated to stop or engage.
So then, with the above brought to light, it is always important to understand your surroundings
While vehicles spiking or debris thrown from bridges does not enable carjacking, as the tyres will be shredded or the car damaged, its relevance is still vital. CEO of Master Drive, Eugene Herbert says: “Theft of goods and assault is highly traumatic. “Don’t stop if this happens. As long as your vehicle can move, keep driving until you reach a safe, well-populated area. Stopping in an isolated spot is often exactly what criminals count on.”
The statistics are a useful guide, but do not guarantee safety. “Unfortunately, even with the greatest vigilance, you can still fall victim to carjacking or crime on the roads. While there are calls for more intervention, as a motorist, it remains your responsibility to be vigilant and know how to extract oneself from a carjacking,” says Herbert.