Hijackings remain a significant concern for South African motorists. Being informed about high-risk areas and adopting preventive measures can greatly reduce the risk of becoming a victim. To help you and your loved ones stay safe out on the roads, we’ve created an in-depth overview of the trends, statistics, the common hijacking hotspots, as well as essential life-saving strategies. 

Understanding Hijacking Trends In South Africa 

The most recent statistics indicate a concerning rise in hijackings. From what we can discern from a national point of view, there have been notable increases in hijackings in certain provinces. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Eastern Cape has experienced a 30% rise, while the Western Cape has had a 17% spike in reported cases.   

Now, when we review the provincial data, we can see more specific trends per province. In Gauteng, for instance, the province remains a concern, with areas like Ivory Park in Ekurhuleni reporting the highest number of cases, and Jabulani in Johannesburg reporting a significant increase in hijackings.   

These trends aren’t intended to negatively colour how we view living and working in South Africa. Knowing that hijacking is becoming more prevalent simply makes it important for us, as drivers, to identify hijacking hotspots and do what we can to avoid these areas. 

Identified hijacking hotspots: 

• Gauteng – Ivory Park (Ekurhuleni), Jabulani (Johannesburg), Pretoria West, Loate, and Akasia. 

• Western Cape – Nyanga, Philippi East, Harare, and Mitchells Plain. 

• KwaZulu-Natal: Durban Central, Umlazi, and Inanda. 

Common Hijacking Tactics 

Understanding the methods used by hijackers can help avoid potential threats. To help you become more vigilant while you’re behind the wheel, we have compiled a list of common tactics. The next time you’re on the road, please keep these descriptions in mind. 

• Fake Roadblocks: Criminals set up unauthorised roadblocks, often using blue lights to impersonate law enforcement. As you slow down, keep your eyes open for official uniforms and vehicle markings. 

• Bump-and-Rob: Perpetrators intentionally bump into the rear of a vehicle, and when the driver exits to assess damage, they seize the opportunity to hijack the car. 

• Follow-Home: Drivers are trailed from shopping centres or airports to their residences, where they are then confronted. Pay attention to vehicles behind you, especially as you slow down when you reach your destination – don’t feel paranoid, drive past your house and go around the block to see if you’re being followed. 

• Good Samaritan Ruse: Hijackers feign vehicle trouble or pose as hitchhikers to lure unsuspecting drivers into stopping, so while you might want to be a good person, it can be safer than sorry to keep driving. 

Safety Tips To Avoid Hijackings 

We all know that we should keep our doors locked and windows up, particularly in slow-moving traffic. We also know that we need to be aware of our surroundings, especially when approaching our destinations, but surely there are additional steps that we can take?  

Thankfully, there are things that you can do besides keeping your eyes peeled. 

For starters, you should plan your route. This allows you to intentionally avoid known hotspots and instead take well-lit, busier roads. As a side note, sometimes your GPS will advise you to take a shorter route that avoids congested roads. These ‘solutions’ can include isolated roads that could put you and your car at risk, so it’s not always wise to accept these suggestions simply to shave off a few minutes off your drive time.  

It’s also recommended that you maintain a safe following distance as this gives you room to maneuver if needed. Speaking of room to move, you should also always be cautious when approaching driveways. When you arrive at your location, take a moment to pause on the road so that you can observe your surroundings before turning into your driveway. 

Lastly, trust your instincts. If something feels off, rather drive to the nearest police station or public area. 

What To Do If Confronted 

You can do everything correctly, follow all the safety tips, and avoid the ‘dodgy’ spots, and still find yourself in the traumatic situation of being hijacked. 

If this happens to you, here is what to do: 

• Keep your hands visible and avoid sudden movements. 

• Comply with their demands, because stuff can be replaced; your life cannot. 

• Avoid eye contact as this can be perceived as a threat. 

• If possible, observe details about the hijackers without staring, such as clothing or distinguishing features, to report to authorities later. 

Feeling informed?  

Being informed and vigilant are your best defenses against hijackings. By staying aware of current hotspots and practicing proactive safety measures, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim.  

For more expert motoring advice and safety tips, visit AA Inform, your trusted source for South African driving insights.