It shouldn’t come as a shock that crime rates in South Africa are expected to continue their upward climb as economic and social conditions deteriorate. It is especially evident in truck and car hijackings.

According to Cartrack, approximately 50% of stolen and hijacked vehicles are disposed of within South Africa, 30% are exported to other countries while 20% end up in chop shops and the second hand parts market. And as long as cash-strapped consumers are prepared to look the other way to save a buck and fuel demand, criminal syndicates will continue to operate and flourish.
Cartrack reports that there has been a 12.3% increase in carjackings while truck hijackings have increased by 16%. That’s 11 221 reported carjackings in the last financial year.

“…more reports are showing a direct correlation between crime rates and economic and social conditions. Both car and truck hijackings are generally perpetrated by organised crime syndicates, thus the hijacking increases also suggest that organised crime is on the rise in South Africa,” explains John Edmeston, Global CFO of Cartrack Holdings Ltd.

“…past experience shows that during the financial crisis of 2008/9, truck hijackings in SA soared by 61% when compared with SAPS stats for 2006/7. During the recovery years of 2011/12, the incidents fell by 42%. Nevertheless, I think we have to come to terms with the fact that crime, particularly organised crime, is an industry in itself and will thrive regardless of economics in an environment where controls and consequences are inadequate, ” adds John.

So keep an eye out, be aware of your surroundings and familiarise yourself with tips for if you are hijacked and make sure you are hijack ready.