Sedans, hatchbacks, and coups suffered the most hijackings, totaling 2841 incidents.
Bakkies and vans followed closely, with 1878 cases highlighting their vulnerability. SUVs and station wagons faced 396 hijackings, while motorcycles, known for maneuverability, experienced 318 incidents.
Micro-buses and minibuses were targeted in 308 cases, showing the wide range of vehicles hijackers prey on.
HERE ARE ANTI-HIJACKING TIPS
Stay vigilant and avoid distractions like checking your cellphone. Watch for unusual behavior or anything out of the ordinary.
Exercise caution when entering driveways, as hijackers often target residential areas. Be especially mindful near electric gates to prevent incidents.
Reverse park against walls in shopping center lots to prevent sneak attacks from behind.
Approach intersections slowly without coming to a full stop to reduce vulnerability to hijackers.
Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front to allow for emergency exit maneuvers when stopping.
Stay unpredictable to thwart potential hijackers who study routines. Change your habits to minimize the risk of targeted incidents.
If you suspect being followed, alter your route and head to the nearest police station for safety. Prioritize your well-being.
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR AUTOMOBILE
With the rise of car theft, here are tips provided by safewise on how you can better protect your vehicle against thieves.
Always secure your vehicle by locking doors and taking keys because consistent habits deter opportunistic car thefts, ensuring safety every time you exit.
Remove valet keys, commonly found in certain car brands. Prevent potential misuse by locating and safely securing these keys.
Upgrade to power locks for added convenience and security. Consider installing a remote car starter to prevent unauthorized use.
Invest in a smart car alarm for real-time alerts and increased security. Choose options like Carlock 2nd Gen for additional features.
Install a kill switch to prevent unauthorized starting. Place it discreetly and activate it every time you leave your car.
Use a steering wheel lock as a budget-friendly deterrent. Combine it with other anti-theft devices for enhanced protection.