Hijacking in South Africa: How to Stay Safe

Where hijackings happen

• At your home gate while you wait for it to open.
• At traffic lights, stop streets and highway off-ramps.
• In parking areas and at filling stations.
• “Blue-light” or fake police stops.
• Staged “bump” accidents.

Warning signs

• A car following you through several turns or into your street.
• People loitering near your gate or a quiet intersection.
• Unmarked cars with blue lights trying to pull you over in a quiet area.

If you think you are being followed, do not drive home. Go to a police station or a busy, well-lit place.

During a hijacking

1. Stay calm and do not resist.
2. Keep your hands visible and move slowly.
3. Get yourself and your children out safely. Tell the hijackers before reaching for a child.
4. Do not follow the hijackers.
5. Call your tracker provider and SAPS on 10111 as soon as you are safe.

Most targeted vehicles

The Toyota Hilux, VW Polo Vivo, Toyota Fortuner, Ford Ranger and Toyota Corolla Cross are among the most hijacked vehicles. See trackers by car model and vehicle theft statistics 2026.

How a tracker helps

Recovery is fastest when the tracker is activated within minutes. Jamming detection, early-warning alerts and radio-frequency backup improve the odds. Many trackers also have a panic button.