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While South Africa is known for its incredible experiences, it is important to stay mindful of the potential risk of hijackings.
Hijackings in South Africa have been on the rise, with recent statistics highlighting the severity of the issue:
DAILY INCIDENTS: Approximately 66 vehicles are hijacked each day, marking a 34% increase over pre-pandemic levels.
ANNUAL TOTALS: In the fiscal year 2023/2024, there were 22,742 reported carjackings, an increase of 1,819 incidents from the previous year.
PROVINCIAL DATA: Gauteng province accounts for 48% of all carjackings, with 5,163 incidents reported over six months in 2024.
VEHICLE BRANDS TARGETED: In 2023, Toyota vehicles were the most hijacked, constituting nearly 32% of all cases, followed by Volkswagen at around 14%.
These figures underscore the increasing prevalence of hijackings across the country,
with certain regions and vehicle brands being particularly affected.
Read our recent projects for more context:
GENERAL SAFETY MEASURES:
STAY ALERT:
Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when getting in or out of your vehicle.
TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS:
If something does not feel right, leave the situation immediately.
KEEP VALUABLES HIDDEN:
Avoid displaying expensive items that could attract unwanted attention.
SECURE BELONGINGS:
Never leave valuables in your car, including in the trunk.
CHOOSE SAFE PARKING:
Park in well-lit, secure areas whenever possible.
NOTIFY SOMEONE OF YOUR PLANS:
Let a friend or family member know your destination and expected return time.
USE TRUSTED TRANSPORTATION:
Opt for reputable taxis, rideshare services (like Uber), or hotel-arranged transport, especially after dark.
TRAVEL IN GROUPS:
Avoid travelling alone, particularly late at night or in unfamiliar areas.
STAY INFORMED:
Keep up with local news and ask locals about areas to avoid, especially after dark.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE:
Familiarise yourself with the areas you are travelling through and avoid high-crime neighbourhoods.
AVOID ATM WITHDRAWALS AT NIGHT:
Use ATMs in well-lit, busy areas during daylight hours, and avoid withdrawing large sums of cash.
VEHICLE SAFETY MEASURES:
CHECK YOUR SURROUNDINGS:
Look around and inside your car before entering or exiting.
BE QUICK AND CONFIDENT:
Enter and exit your vehicle swiftly to avoid drawing attention.
LOCK THE DOORS:
Lock your doors immediately after entering your vehicle, even for short trips.
LIMIT DISTRACTIONS:
Avoid using your phone or getting distracted while driving.
BE CAUTIOUS AT INTERSECTIONS:
Stay alert to vehicles around you, particularly those that seem to linger.
INSTALL SECURITY DEVICES:
Consider adding a tracking system or alarm to your car for added security.
DRIVE WITH WINDOWS UP AND DOORS LOCKED:
Keep your car windows rolled up and doors locked, even when driving in less busy areas.
AVOID STOPPING FOR UNKNOWN VEHICLES:
If another vehicle is trying to stop or flag you down, do not pull over.
It is safer to drive to the nearest police station or a busy public area.
USE A SAFE ROUTE:
Stick to well-traveled main roads whenever possible.
Avoid shortcuts through isolated or poorly lit areas.
KEEP YOUR FUEL TANK FULL:
A full tank can help you avoid being stranded in vulnerable areas.
PARK IN REVERSE:
Back into parking spaces so you can quickly drive out if needed.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE HIJACKED:
STAY CALM:
Panicking may worsen the situation.
COMPLY WITH INSTRUCTIONS:
Follow the hijackers' commands, but remain cautious and aware.
OBSERVE DETAILS:
Take note of the hijackers’ appearance, accents, and the vehicles they drive.
KEEP YOUR HANDS VISIBLE:
Ensure your hands are visible to the hijackers to avoid alarming them.
DO NOT RESIST:
Giving up your vehicle and belongings is safer than risking your life.
MEMORISE KEY DETAILS:
Without drawing attention, try to remember distinguishing features of the hijackers (e.g., tattoos, scars, or distinctive clothing).
REPORT THE INCIDENT:
Once you are safe, immediately contact the police to report the hijacking.
KNOW THE LOCATION OF NEARBY POLICE STATIONS:
Familiarising yourself with the locations of local police stations can help in case you need to report the crime.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY MEASURES:
STAY IN REPUTABLE ACCOMMODATIONS:
Choose hotels with good security measures.
CARRY A CHARGED PHONE:
Ensure your phone is fully charged, and keep emergency contacts saved.
USE A VEHICLE TRACKING APP:
Some apps allow you to share your location with trusted contacts so they can track you in real-time.
By following these comprehensive safety measures, you can significantly reduce your risk and feel more confident while travelling in South Africa. Always prioritise your safety, stay alert, and be proactive in keeping yourself protected.
Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel.
This channel is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.
How to Join the WhatsApp Channel:
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CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.
ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
Mobile: +27 82 447 6116
E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
Fax: 086 585 4924
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