As the lockdown restrictions are reduced across South Africa, more significant opportunities exist for criminals to hijack cars. No wonder hijackings have increased. Discover more about hijacking trends in South Africa as you read on.1,2
What is your optimal protection from hijackers? 1
According to these criminals, the best protection a motorist can get is to not be conspicuous. Another way is not to stop at traffic lights or stop streets, especially at night. Instead, travel slowly towards a red traffic light to turn green by the time you arrive there. A moving car is not an attractive target.
Some hijacking trends 1
Police Minister Bheki Cele stated that hijackings have risen by 92% from April to 30 June 2021 compared to the same time in 2020. The increase in Gauteng was a staggering 97.8%, involving 2704 cases. Women drivers are targeted the most as they are considered soft targets.
Uber drivers are targeted 1
This is a serious trend that is particularly prevalent in Braamfontein, Mayfair and Maboneng. A typical modus operandi is that a woman summons an Uber driver. Upon arrival, she opens the door but disappears to let in gunmen who then hijack the car.
Further trends 2
According to an undated article by www.profitableventure.com, 2 a vehicle is hijacked every 32 minutes or 46 per day in South Africa.
Where are hijackings likely to be? 2
Usually in places where a car is stationary, such as when a driver is filling up with petrol in a garage. Petrol attendants won’t interfere with such hijackers as they are armed. Hijackers also visit restaurants and clubs to find a soft target. After lacing someone’s drinks, they can take off with the car keys. What is of greater concern is that hijackers have been found wearing police and traffic officer uniforms. Once someone has stopped, they force the driver out of the car.
Which cars are hijacked the most? 2
The most hijacked cars are the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and Volkswagen Polo. You are targeted if you drive a sedan or hatchback, while bakkies are the second most hijacked. Car thefts and hijackings are directly related to your car’s popularity.
Which cars are hijacked the least? 2
These are Peugeot (308 model), Alfa Romeo (Giulietta), Volvo (V40), Mitsubishi (Outlander), Honda (Civic), Nissan Infiniti (Q50), Subaru (Outback), Toyota Lexus (IS), and Citroen (C4 Picasso)
Disclaimer
Please note, this article can only be a source of information. Please consult a registered financial service provider for more information before buying any car insurance product.
Now you know which car to buy is the least popular with hijackers. This is where car insurance is most important, ensuring your policy covers car theft and hijackings. If you have purchased a new car that a bank will finance, the law requires you to buy comprehensive car insurance. Contact Prime South Africa and discover affordable, comprehensive car insurance with exceptional benefits like fixed premiums* and reduce to zero excess*. T and Cs apply.
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