anti-riot bakkie

Photo: Supplied

LOOK: ‘Riot-proof bakkie’ – including gunports and armour – hits the market

South Africa’s new ‘riot-proof bakkie’ is here – and not a second too soon. Here’s what you need to know about the heavily-armoured vehicle.

anti-riot bakkie

Photo: Supplied

I think we can call this a timely intervention? The creative engineers down at SVI have come up with a bakkie that they believe is properly ‘riot-proof’, following the widespread unrest that took hold of KZN and Gauteng last month.

riot bakkie
Photo: Supplied

The ‘anti-riot bakkie’ is here

SVI, a specialist manufacturer of armoured products, has come up with a cab that offers the utmost protection to security teams and law enforcement representatives. The anti-riot bakkie, which is based on the Toyota Hilux model, has already been deployed during the upheaval witnessed in July – and it came through the first major test.

“The anti-riot Hilux provides the security industry a cost-effective option entering into areas with a high ballistic threat level. Applications include mining security, moving of guards, extracting people from dangerous situations – and of course, controlling riot action.”

“This was put to the test as a unit, part of the SVI Secure rental fleet, did duty during the week of unrest in South Africa and it passed with flying colours. The Hilux solution provides a nimble and reliable alternative compared to large, older-generation armoured personnel carriers at an affordable price.”

What makes this vehicle riot-proof?

Fancy it? Well, you may be looking at a six-figure sum, but with all things considered, the vehicle itself isn’t obscenely expensive. Not by a long chalk. Prices start from R223 000 for the basic model, rising to R271 000 if a client wants to add the riot-control canopy. Here’s what you will get for your money…

  • The vehicle is based on the trusted Toyota Hilux single cab.
  • It can carry up to eight people.
  • Get this: There are several AK47 assault rifle ports protection for the cabin.
  • The anti-riot bakkie comes with six additional seats, seatbelts and a fully operationa aircon unit in the canopy.
  • Windows are also equipped with gun ports – and an escape hatch.
  • The armouring kit – which covers the glass, body and roof surrounding the occupants – protects against assault rifle rounds. 
  • The SVI-engineered motor also boasts of its ‘low running costs’.
Photo: Supplied

Bakkie to basics: New model offers enhanced security

SVI was formed in 2004 as an innovative mechanical engineering firm specialising in armoured vehicles. They have established themselves as something of a market leader, and provide solutions across the continent.

This latest development, however, comes at a time where private security is needed more than ever. Left woefully exposed by the scale of the unrest, SAPS struggled to control the violence that left hundreds dead. It is now hoped that specialist vehicles, such as the anti-riot bakkie, can be used to help prevent such situations from arising again.