SAPS releases quarterly crime stats. Image: iStock.
CONFIRMED: Crime stats EXPOSE targeted vehicles for hijackings
Police Minister Bheki Cele unveiled Quarter Two Crime Stats 2023/2024, most hijacked vehicles from 1 July to 30 September 2023 were revealed.
SAPS releases quarterly crime stats. Image: iStock.
In a press conference held on 17 November 2023, Police Minister General Bheki Cele (MP) presented the Quarter Two Crime Statistics for 2023/2024 in Pretoria.
“The National Crime figures we are releasing today, stem from cases reported to and detected by the SAPS from 1st of July to 30th September 2023,” said Cele.
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The crime statistics highlighted the prevalent types of vehicles hijacked from 1 July to 30 September 2023.
Types of vehicles hijacked
The data brought to light a concerning trend, with the highest number of hijackings occurring among sedan/hatchback/coupe vehicles, reaching a staggering 2 841 incidents.
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Following closely were bakkies and panel vans, with 1 878 reported cases, underscoring the susceptibility of these widely-used utility vehicles.
SUVs and station wagons found themselves in a precarious position, experiencing 396 reported hijackings. Even motorcycles, often associated with increased maneuverability, were not spared, with 318 incidents.
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Micro buses and mini buses were targeted in 308 cases, revealing the broad spectrum of vehicles falling prey to hijackers.
Crime stats reveal that larger vehicles are also targeted
The statistics unveiled that larger vehicles were not immune to hijackings, as trucks under 3500 kg faced 184 incidents. Trailers and buses were also victimised, with 18 and 15 reported hijackings, respectively. Even industrial machinery, trucks over 3500 kg, and agricultural machinery were not exempt, although their occurrences were relatively lower.
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This breakdown of hijackings by vehicle type emphasises the need for tailored strategies to address the unique challenges associated with each category.
As communities grapple with growing concerns, these statistics serve as a compelling call to action, urging coordinated efforts and heightened security measures to stem the rising tide of vehicle hijackings in the nation.
