The most hijacked cars in Johannesburg revealed, is yours on the list?
Car hijackings are on the rise in Johannesburg, with popular models like Toyota Hilux, Volkswagen Golf, and BMW 3 Series being targeted. Learn how to protect yourself and your vehicle.
Johannesburg, South Africa’s economic hub, is plagued by a growing crime wave, with car hijacking being a major concern for motorists. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), car hijackings have increased significantly over the past few years, with Johannesburg being one of the hotspots.
We explore the most hijacked cars in Johannesburg in this article to highlight the popular models targeted by hijackers and what motorists can do to protect themselves.
Read more: Be alert drive-thru hijackings on the up
Based on the latest SAPS crime statistics, the following cars are the most hijacked in Johannesburg, according to Gauteng News publication:
• Toyota Hilux: The Toyota Hilux is a popular target for hijackers, due to its high resale value and demand in the black market.
• Volkswagen Golf: The Volkswagen Golf is another sought-after model, particularly the GTI and R variants, which are highly prized by hijackers.
• Ford Ranger: The Ford Ranger is a popular bakkie (pickup truck) in South Africa, making it an attractive target for hijackers.
• Nissan NP200: The Nissan NP200 is a compact bakkie that is widely used for commercial purposes, making it a prime target for hijackers.
• BMW 3 Series: The BMW 3 Series is a luxury sedan that is highly sought after by hijackers, particularly the newer models.
• Mercedes-Benz C-Class: The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is another luxury sedan that is frequently targeted by hijackers.
• Hyundai i20: The Hyundai i20 is a popular hatchback that is often hijacked due to its affordability and resale value.
• Kia Rio: The Kia Rio is a compact sedan that is frequently targeted by hijackers.
Also read: How to prevent hijackings with your child in the car
The main reasons behind car hijackings in Johannesburg include:
• Resale value. Hijackers target cars with high resale value to sell them on the black market,
• Parts stripping: Hijackers strip cars of valuable parts, such as engines and wheels, to sell them separately, and lastly,
• Commercial use: Hijackers use stolen cars for commercial purposes, such as transporting goods or committing crimes.
To protect yourself from hijacking, it’s crucial to grasp the psychology and tactics of organized criminals. These crimes are often meticulously planned, catching victims off guard.
Here are key insights to enhance your awareness according to Cartrack, a car tracking services company.
• Pre-meditated crimes: Before striking, perpetrators research and identify desirable vehicles, mastering the skills needed to hijack them.
• Technological advancements: Modern vehicle technology has ironically increased hijacking risks. Since many cars can’t be ‘hotwired’, thieves now focus on obtaining keys, putting drivers at risk of being taken along with their vehicle.
• The new face of crime: Gone are the stereotypes of disheveled criminals. Today’s hijackers blend in, driving luxury vehicles and dressing impeccably, making them harder to spot.
To minimize the risk of car hijacking, motorists can take the following precautions:
• Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in high-risk areas.
• Avoid driving alone at night or in isolated areas.
• Keep valuables out of sight.
• Install anti-theft devices, such as immobilizers and tracking systems.
• Avoid stopping at secluded or poorly lit areas.
• Keep your car in good condition to prevent breakdowns.
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Related article: Hijacking awareness may just be your saving grace
