Ruan Vermaak | Director | Marketing & Communications Manager | CrisisOnCall | mail me |
South Africa has recorded a significant drop in vehicle hijackings, but the numbers provide little reason for motorists to become complacent.
According to the latest South African Police Service (SAPS) crime statistics, 3,811 vehicle hijackings were recorded nationally between April and June 2026. This represents an 18.2% decrease from the same period last year. However, the figure still amounts to about 42 car hijackings a day. Gauteng accounted for 57.9% of reported incidents.
Carjackings are down, but 42 hijackings a day is still 42 too many. The message isn’t that South Africans should be afraid to drive. It is that awareness and preparedness should become part of how we drive.
Although carjackings are down, we recommend that motorists remain prepared. The organisation recommends thinking about hijacking safety in three stages: before, during and after an incident.
Before – stay alert and have a plan
Many precautions are simple habits. Remain aware when approaching your home or destination, particularly when entering or leaving a driveway. Avoid sitting distracted in a stationary vehicle. Also, leave enough space between your vehicle and the one ahead. This gives you room to move if necessary.
If you suspect that you are being followed, do not drive home. Instead, change your route and head towards a police station. You can also head to another secure location where assistance is available.
Preparedness also means knowing beforehand whom you would contact. You should also know how you would call for help.
Technology can be incredibly useful, but only if you know how to use it before you need it. Our members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Protect Me function in the CrisisOnCall App. Trip Monitoring can also provide an additional layer of support when travelling longer distances or through unfamiliar areas.
During – your life comes first
If confronted by hijackers, the priority is not the vehicle. Instead, it is getting through the encounter safely.
Try to remain calm and avoid sudden movements. Keep your hands visible. Follow instructions and do not argue with or challenge the attackers. If you need to move your hands, explain what you are doing. For example, explain that you need to release your seatbelt.
Most importantly, do not resist simply to protect your vehicle. A vehicle can be replaced. You cannot. Your objective during a hijacking is to survive the encounter.
After – get safe and get help
Once you are clear of the immediate danger, move to a safe location and contact SAPS. Notify your insurer and vehicle tracking or security provider where applicable. If you are a member and require assistance, notify us as well. Do not chase the hijackers or attempt to recover the vehicle yourself.
Crime statistics can make people feel powerless, but preparedness gives us something practical that we can control.
Even though carjackings are down, motorists should remain alert and prepared. Be alert, have a plan and know what to do if something happens. You don’t want to work that out for the first time in the middle of a crisis.