Car hijackings continue to be one of South Africa’s most alarming crime trends in 2025. According to the latest statistics, thousands of motorists fall victim to hijackings each quarter, with criminals showing clear preferences for certain vehicle categories. Understanding these patterns is crucial for making smarter choices when it comes to buying, securing, and insuring your vehicle.
South Africa’s Hijacking Trends in 2025
Data from the South African Police Service (SAPS) for Q4 2024/2025 (January–March 2025) paints a stark picture:
- 4,546 vehicles were hijacked in just three months.
- That’s roughly 50 cars stolen every day – or one every 32 minutes.
While overall numbers remain high, some categories saw declines, while others experienced worrying surges.
Top 3 Most Hijacked Vehicle Categories
1. Sedans, Hatchbacks, and Coupes – 44.4% of Hijackings
With 2,016 incidents, this category remains the number one target. Although hijackings dropped by 13.8% compared to the previous quarter, sedans, hatchbacks, and coupes are still the most at-risk vehicles. Their resale value, abundant spare parts market, and cross-border demand make them prime criminal targets.
2. Bakkies and Panel Vans – 33.1% of Hijackings
Commercial vehicles such as bakkies and panel vans recorded 1,503 hijackings. Demand for these vehicles remains steady as they are essential for both local businesses and cross-border smuggling operations. Unlike sedans, this category showed little change compared to the previous quarter.
3. SUVs and Station Wagons – 7.5% of Hijackings
SUVs and wagons accounted for 341 incidents, a 4.6% increase from Q3. Their rising popularity, higher price tags, and demand beyond South Africa’s borders make them increasingly attractive to hijackers.
Also read: Most Hijacked Chinese Cars in South Africa
Emerging Concerns: New High-Risk Vehicles
- Motorcycles – +20.2%
With 291 incidents, motorcycles are now firmly on hijackers’ radar. Their use in delivery services and courier platforms makes them both visible and valuable. - Heavy Trucks Over 3,500kg – +56.8%
Hijackings of large trucks jumped to 58 incidents, the steepest rise across all categories. Their valuable cargo and utility for criminal syndicates explain the surge. - Newly Targeted Vehicles
For the first time, SAPS reports hijackings of ambulances, farm machinery, and truck-and-trailer combos, signaling an expansion of criminal focus beyond passenger and commercial vehicles.
Why These Vehicles Are Targeted
- High Market Demand – Popular vehicles fetch strong resale values and can easily be dismantled for parts.
- Cross-Border Smuggling – Vehicles are trafficked to neighbouring countries where demand drives higher profits.
- Operational Vulnerabilities – Older models lacking advanced anti-theft systems are easy prey.
- Commercial Value – Vans, bakkies, and trucks offer utility beyond resale, making them especially desirable.
Hijacking Hotspots: Where You’re Most at Risk
- Your Own Driveway – The most common hijacking location, especially during predictable arrival and departure times.
- School Zones – Drop-off and pick-up routines create opportunities for distracted parents to be targeted.
- Petrol Stations – Stationary vehicles and distracted drivers make these prime locations.
- Traffic Intersections – Criminals increasingly strike at stop streets and traffic lights during peak hours.
Protection Strategies for Vehicle Owners
If You Own a Sedan, Hatchback, or Coupe
- Invest in tracking systems, immobilisers, and steering locks.
- Vary your routes and routines.
- Use window tinting to conceal valuables.
If You Own a Bakkie or Panel Van
- Secure cargo areas with extra locks.
- Remove tools and equipment when parked.
- Always use GPS tracking and park in monitored areas.
Also read: The 10 Least Hijacked Cars in South Africa
Insurance Protection: Theftbuster Plus from Bidvest Insurance
Given that only 30–40% of South African vehicles are adequately insured, protecting yourself financially is as important as protecting your car.
Theftbuster Plus offers:
- Up to R15,000 in excess cover.
- Replacement of stolen personal belongings.
- R2,000 trauma counselling support.
- R3,500 car hire cover during claim processing.
- R10,000 loyalty bonus for total loss.
- Crime scene clean-up worth R10,000.
This product helps bridge the financial and emotional gaps left behind after a hijacking incident.
Hijacking in South Africa is evolving. While sedans, hatchbacks, and coupes remain the most targeted, motorcycles, SUVs, and heavy trucks are increasingly at risk. With criminals shifting tactics and expanding their scope, drivers must stay vigilant, adopt robust security practices, and ensure they have financial protection in place.
Staying informed about these crime trends is the first step toward keeping yourself and your vehicle safe in 2025.
Related article: Top Hijacking Spots in Gauteng: What You Need to Know in 2025
