Shift in hijacking targets in South Africa – with Chinese cars now in the crosshairs
Fidelity Services group has noted that hijackers are increasingly targeting Chinese cars in South Africa, thanks to their growing popularity.
Wahl Bartmann, CEO of Fidelity Services Group, confirmed that Fidelity recorded an increase in the number of hijackings during the first half of 2024 compared to the corresponding periods during 2023 and the second half of 2023.
As previously mentioned by Bartmann, he explained vehicle hijackings are largely a business driven by demand and supply.
As a result, hijackers target specific vehicles for a specific purpose and market.
As a consequence, and the increase in the perceived quality of Chinese-branded vehicles, Bartmann noted that Fidelity had noted an increase in the number of these types of vehicles being hijacked.
Over the years, the demand for notable Chinese brands such as BAIC, Beijing, Chery, GWM, Haval, Jaecoo, and Omoda has increased significantly.
Over the last four years alone, these cars, with many only entering the market within the last couple of years, increased sales from 7,611 in 2020 to 30,850 as of 2023—a 305% increase.
Haval and Chery have been the main drivers of this trend. Naamsa’s data shows that Havel has sold approximately 19,904 units, representing an increase of over 2,000% from the 872 recorded in 2019. Chery’s sales are likely to be in the same region.
Considering these statistics, it was only a matter of time before Chinese cars filtered into the criminals’ most-wanted list.
While Fidelity didn’t mention specific models being targeted, one can make a reasonable assumption based on historical data and trends.
As highlighted in several lists of the most hijacked vehicles, the most targeted cars often align with the best-selling cars in the country or the most popular cars on South African roads.
Following this notion, Chinese cars, including the Haval Jolion and the H6 SUV, along with Chery’s Tiggo range, which are the respective brands’ best-selling models, could be at a heightened risk for hijackings.
Interestingly, the targeting of Chinese cars was flagged as early as 2021.
The SAPS issued a warning that they had noted a rise in car hijackings, specifically Haval models.
Preliminary investigations and information received from sources showed that the engines of the Chinese-manufactured were removed and fitted into Toyota Quantum minibuses.
Additionally, other stakeholders, such as Tracker and insurer Naked, have warned that hijackers target cars built for Africa’s roads, which is why 4x4s are often the target.
This could mean GMW’s popular P-Series bakkie could also be rising on the list of cars hijackers are targeting in South Africa.
The P-Series would join popular targets such as the Toyota Hilux, Fortuner, and Ford Ranger bakkies.
As part of these shifting targets, Bartmann added that the top five vehicles currently being targeted and their colours, as flagged within Fidelity’s footprint, include:
- White Nissan Almera
- White VW Polo
- White Toyota Hi-Ace
- White Nissan NP200
- Grey/blue/white Toyota Corolla
Bartmann urged motorists to be more observant while driving, regardless of the type and colour of their vehicle.
“Try to identify any suspicious vehicles that may be following you,” he said.
“When a vehicle is following you close to your home and/or when an unknown vehicle is parked close to your residence, drive past your house and to your nearest police station and alert your armed response company.
“Vehicle telematics systems are effective tools to help in the recovery of your vehicle. If you haven’t considered one before, I urge you to do so today,” he added.
In the unfortunate event that you find you’re being hijacked, Bartmann warns you not to resist.
“Remember that perpetrators are always armed and would not hesitate to fire when confronted.
“Additional perpetrators may stand out of view and fire should you fight back. A hijacking can happen at any place and at any time,” he said.
Should you be hijacked, report the incident to your tracking company and the police as soon as possible. The sooner you report the incident, the greater the likelihood that your vehicle will be recovered
Loading ...
