Hijackings in South Africa, particularly in areas considered no-go zones for e-hailing drivers.
Key Points:
- Hijackings are on the rise, especially in high-risk areas.
- E-hailing drivers are particularly vulnerable to hijacking in certain townships.
- Private security firms and SAPS are working to recover stolen vehicles.
Hijackings on the Rise
Hijackings in South Africa rises. Motorists in South Africa face a growing threat of hijackings, with statistics showing about 60 vehicles are hijacked daily, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS). The problem is particularly severe in provinces like the Eastern Cape and Western Cape, where hijackings have increased significantly, leaving victims traumatized and losing their vehicles in seconds.
E-Hailing Drivers as Targets
E-hailing drivers, such as those in Cape Town, are seen as easy targets. Innocentia Mabaso, an e-hailing driver, shared her traumatic experience of being hijacked in Nyanga. As a result, she refuses to pick up rides in areas like Nyanga, Harare, and Delft, considering them no-go zones. Another driver in Gauteng, Dhliwayo, expressed similar fears, highlighting townships like Mamelodi and Soshanguve as dangerous places for drivers.
No-Go Areas Confirmed by Private Investigators
Tshenolo Private Investigations (PI), a prominent security company, has recovered numerous hijacked vehicles. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a representative confirmed that no-go areas in South Africa are real, particularly in regions like Winterveldt, Soshanguve, Eersterust, and Mamelodi, where hijackings of e-hailing vehicles are frequent.
Forensic Investigator’s Insights
Calvin Rafadi, a forensic investigator at the University of Johannesburg, also identified hijacking hotspots in areas like Eersterust, Eldorado Park, and parts of Soweto. He noted that e-hailing drivers, especially women, are particularly vulnerable to hijackings and assaults. Rafadi offered advice to motorists, urging them to stay calm and comply with hijackers, emphasizing the importance of clear communication to avoid violent confrontations.
Hope for Recovery
Despite the rising number of hijackings, private security firms, along with SAPS, are working together to recover stolen vehicles. These collaborations provide hope for reducing hijacking incidents and increasing the recovery of stolen assets.
