They say knowledge is power. That’s why awareness of the new hijacking trends greatly helps you stay safe and cautious when out and about. This is especially important since the colour of your car greatly increases the risk of you being targeted.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) revealed in their last crime statistics that 5 427 cars were hijacked from April 2024 to June 2024. Murder and attempted murder due to hijackings and attempts saw a total of over 200 people. Here are recent trends to know to keep safe, especially during the busy holiday season.
WHAT TYPES OF CARS ARE MOSTLY GETTING HIJACKED?
The SAPS crime statistics April 2024 to June 2024 showed a trend where certain types of cars were the ones mostly targeted by criminals. The report stated that a total of 2 511 hatchbacks, sedans and coupes were hijacked during this period. Bakkies and panel vans were second, numbering 1 695 and SUVs and station wagons were 404.
CARS IN THIS COLOUR HAVE ALSO BECOME TARGETS
There are certain brands and colours of vehicles that have recently caught the attention of hijackers. Caxton’s Bedfordview and Edenvale News reported on this trend on 5 November 2024. They said bright-coloured cars have increasingly become targets. Security service provider Fidelity ADT said one of the main colours being targeted is white. White VW Polo, Nissan Almera, Toyota Corolla, Nissan NP200 and Toyota Hi-Ace vehicles are all primary targets. Also, Toyota Corollas in blue and grey are at high risk.
THE CAR WASH HIJACKING TREND YOU NEED TO KNOW
According to a report by BusinessTech on 4 November 2024, there is a car wash hijacking trend that has started in Gauteng where thieves hijack vehicles at car washes. Fidelity revealed to the publication that after motorists leave their motors, and also keys, at usually busy car washes the hijackers start waiting for a chance to strike.
When an opportunity arises they will either quickly drive away with cars with keys left in the ignition, that are unlocked or unattended to. Another tactic is approaching the attendants and claim to be sent by the owner of the car to pick it up.
Despite carjacking dropping by 0.9% according to the last crime statistics, motorists still need to be vigilant. Hijackers are constantly finding more cunning ways to rob them of their valuable possessions.
HOW DO YOU STAY SAFE TO REDUCE YOUR RISK OF GETTING HIJACKED?
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