SAPS’ Motor Vehicle Safety Tips

Brakpan SAPS corporate communications officer, Constable Audrey Buthelezi, shared some tips on protecting your motor vehicle from crime this festive season.

“Motor vehicle theft remains a major problem in South Africa, and the Brakpan SAPS is experiencing an alarmingly high number of reports,” she explained.

Data shows that the number of hijackings has increased in all provinces, reaching 5,973 in the third quarter of the 2023/2024 period, an increase of 365 reported cases.

There are several factors that contribute to the high rate of car theft, including the following:

• The high demand for stolen vehicles and parts on the illegal market;

• The constant growth and improvement of tools and technology that can be used to steal cars;

• Lack of anti-theft systems;

• Electronic blocking jammers;

• Keyless entry;

• Popular colors that affect resale;

• Owner negligence, such as not checking that the car is locked after pressing the button or leaving the car while it is still moving, or leaving valuables in plain sight.

Buthelezi’s tips to prevent car theft are:
• Install deterrents such as steering locks and immobilization systems;

• Always remain alert to your surroundings;

• Trust your instincts and report suspicions to the SAPS;

• Use signal blocking cases; And

• Update your car security software regularly.

“The public must remain calm when faced with car theft or hijacking to avoid further trauma if attacked or kidnapped by the criminals,” Buthelezi explained.

“Report the incident immediately to the nearest police station and your tracking company if a tracker is installed.”