LIST: New hijacking trends a worry in South Africa
There are new ways to hijack a car in South Africa - and it is rather worrying...
New reports have shown that every 25 minutes, a car is hijacked in South Africa. This is due to the common trends or styles that criminals use to get these vehicles.
The use of signal jammers is a common tactic used by criminals. There's also special equipment that is used to create a long-range link between your key and the car.
Read more: Durban hijacking suspect to remain behind bars
According to Netstar, criminals are developing new methods to target cars that are technologically advanced, like cars with start buttons.
Many of the tactics to steal a car used by criminals remain the same. They are listed in the following ways:
- 'Police hijacking' where criminals pose as law enforcement officers.
- Removal of your number plate; drive next to you and show you the plate. When you stop, they hijack you.
- By physically bumping you and when you get out to inspect the damage, they hijack you.
- They show you that you have a flat tyre; when you stop to check, they hijack you.
WATCH: A hijacking attempt that didn't go as planned, but turned out costly...
Security company Fidelity produced data that includes the vehicles hijackers most often target. These vehicles are; Toyota Hilux, Volkswagen Polo, Toyota Quantum, and Nissan NP200.
There are, of course, safety measures that you need to use when it comes to your vehicle. Netstar has noted that hijackers use jammers in public places. These places can be malls, gyms, schools, social gatherings, sports events or church gatherings.
These are the most common hotspots for remote jammers. People can also be in a vulnerable position to hijacking when they have to withdraw cash or intend to go to an ATM.
WATCH: Viral Hijacking in Durban, Randles Road
Here are some tips to stay alert, safe, and prevent a possible hijacking:
- Take note of similar vehicles
- Consider time
- Don’t just drive into your driveway
- Keep moving
- Report
