N2 route to Cape Town International Airport, remains a dangerous hotspot for vehicle hijackings
South Africa continues to battle high levels of vehicle hijackings.
Image: File
Vehicle hijackings in South Africa remain at alarmingly high levels, according to recent crime statistics.
The data shows no signs of improvement, with several high-risk areas across the country continuing to pose significant threats to motorists.
In the Western Cape, the N2 route leading to Cape Town International Airport, often referred to by locals as “the gauntlet” or “the road to hell”, remains regarded as dangerous.
Popular vehicles such as the Toyota Hilux and Volkswagen Polo continue to dominate hijacking statistics due to their high resale value and strong demand for parts.
In Gauteng, Alexandra remains a hotspot, while Inanda in KwaZulu-Natal continues to record high numbers of hijacking incidents.
Newer additions to the list of commonly targeted vehicles include the Kia Picanto, Isuzu D-Max and Toyota Corolla Cross. The Ford Ranger also continues to feature prominently as its popularity grows.
CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, warned motorists against becoming complacent.
Herbert said: “The most important thing to understand is that no person, vehicle or area is immune to carjacking risk.
“Falling into complacency because your vehicle is not on the list or you seldom frequent high-risk areas is your biggest vulnerability. Vigilance is non-negotiable for your family, your employees and yourself.”
Herbert advised motorists to drive in the middle lane where possible to create distance from roadside criminals, particularly on high-risk routes.
Motorists were urged to remain alert at intersections and in slow-moving traffic, keep doors locked and windows closed, and leave enough space between vehicles to pull away quickly if necessary.
Herbert noted that hijacking risks are generally higher between 4pm and 9pm.