Good news for Gauteng-based motorists: the latest SAPS crime statistics show that car hijackings in the province decreased by 2.7% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to last year (2024)!
While this positive trend is welcome, decreasing crime does not mean reduced risk—staying informed and prepared should remain a top priority.
This is why Pineapple put together this neat little guide, designed to help you if you ever come face-to-balaclava with a hijacker.
We’ve identified 10 of Gauteng’s top hijacking hotspots in 2025, give you practical advice on navigating these crime hotspots, break down the latest trends, and offer you helpful tips to avoid an incident and to handle a hijacking should one occur.
TL;DR – Our version of “I’m not reading all that, *SparkNotes pls.”
- Gauteng’s top hijacking hotspots of 2025 include Ivory Park, Mamelodi East, Akasia, Jabulani, Moroka, Olievenhoutbosch, Pretoria West, Sandringham, Vosloorus and Tembisa.
- These areas have been identified as hijacking hotspots due to traffic congestion, bad roads, routine commuter routes, poor street lighting and accessibility.
- Hijackings in South Africa are strategic, often exploiting predictable routes and unaware drivers.
- The Toyota Hilux, Quantum and Fortuner, Volkswagen Polo, Ford Ranger, and Nissan NP200 are South Africa’s most hijacked vehicles of 2025.
- A hijacking is an intense situation, but a calm and practical reaction can help you survive.
Top Hijacking Hotspots in Gauteng
The latest SAPS crime stats show that despite an overall decrease in hijackings, certain areas in Gauteng consistently show a higher prevalence of car crime.
Here are the top ten hijacking hotspots in Gauteng as of 2025 (according to Police Station Precincts with the Highest Number of Carjackings (Q1 2025):
1. Ivory Park (Ekurhuleni District).
Situated between major commercial hubs like Midrand and Tembisa, Ivory Park’s high population density and high-traffic transit corridor make it a frequent target for hijackers exploiting traffic congestion.
2. Mamelodi East (Tshwane District).
The area’s busy, often traffic-congested roads create numerous opportunities for car crimes. The risk lies in the area’s busy commercial centres and major intersections.
3. Akasia (Tshwane District).
Located in a fast-growing region of Pretoria, the risks are concentrated along its proximity to major highways, main arterial roads and commercial zones.
4. Jabulani (Johannesburg District).
As a key transport hub in Soweto, Jabulani’s massive population of commuters and high traffic volumes are often exploited by carjackers. Criminals are said to target distracted drivers or stationary vehicles at busy intersections.
5. Moroka (Johannesburg District).
Like Jabulani’s police precinct, this area is considered risky due to its densely populated neighbourhoods and predictable daily traffic patterns. Hijackers take advantage of the stop-and-go traffic, preying on drivers navigating unfamiliar roads.
6. Olievenhoutbosch (Tshwane District).
This rapidly expanding area is prone to carjacking incidents on its main roads and on/off-ramps, where drivers are forced to slow down, leaving them vulnerable.
7. Pretoria West (Tshwane District).
The area’s busy transport routes and commercial hubs make it a frequent location for car crime, with incidents often happening in broad daylight. Carjackers usually target vehicles transporting goods or cash, or follow private vehicles from commercial zones.
8. Sandringham (Johannesburg District).
The SAPS Sandringham precinct records a high volume of hijacking-related crimes due to its location at the intersection of several major routes, including Louis Botha Avenue. This makes it a high-traffic transit area, a.k.a a prime location for hijackers targeting high-value vehicles in follow-home robberies.
9. Vosloorus (Ekurhuleni District).
Vosloorus’s high traffic, predictable commuter routes and public transport volume make it especially vulnerable to hijackings. Hijackers are said to operate near major taxi routes and at busy intersections, targeting solo drivers.
10. Tembisa (Ekurhuleni District).
Hijackers take advantage of Tembisa’s high population density, large traffic flow, and slow-moving, congested traffic on main routes. These environments allow them to launch their attacks and disappear into the crowd.
Other areas to be hyper vigilant in, as per the 2025 report, are as follows:
- Midrand
- Alexandra
- Kempton Park
- Orange Farms
- Protea
While almost every neighbourhood in South Africa may feel like a warzone, you should be extra mindful if you’re ever in the following areas.
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Why These Areas Are High-Risk
Understanding the ‘why’ behind what makes these areas hotspots is just as important as knowing where they are. Car theft isn’t random; hijacking tactics in South Africa are strategic, often exploiting predictable routes and unaware drivers.
Here’s what makes an area a hijacking high-risk:
- Traffic congestion (which is made worse by damaged/broken traffic lights).
- Bad roads.
- Routine commuter routes.
- Poor street lighting.
- Accessibility.
High-risk areas might have one or a combination of the above dangers.
Hijackers in South Africa monitor routine routes, particularly for high-value vehicles. Perpetrators will research which vehicles are the best to steal in advance and will continue to learn the organised skill sets needed to hijack these vehicles.
Hijackers often operate according to their “clients” shopping list. This list typically specifies exactly what make and model of car they need, how many they need, and by when they need it.
Additionally, dark or dimly lit streets are a hijacker’s best friend; they allow them to remain concealed from possible witnesses, making it easier to commit the crime.
This is primarily why driveway hijackings are so common in residential areas.
Heavy traffic, particularly on highways like the N1 and N3 or other major intersections, forces motorists to slow down or come to a complete stop. And unfortunately, a stationary vehicle makes for an easy target.
Similarly, poor road conditions and potholes force drivers to slow down. While motorists try to manoeuvre the bad roads, hijackers use this opportunity to their advantage, striking when you least expect it.
In some instances, distractions and “role-playing” can purposely slow a driver down or cause them to stop, i.e. a woman pulled over on the side of the road “in need of help”, objects purposefully placed in the road, etc.
Sometimes, it is just best to call emergency services and have them arrive at the scene to check out and assist instead of assisting yourself.
Lastly, an area is high-risk because it has easy access to major roads or highways, allowing hijackers to escape quickly. They strike in environments that allow them to stay hidden but also allow them to make a quick escape.
According to De Wet and De Villiers brokers, these are South Africa’s most hijacked vehicles in 2025:
- Toyota Hilux
- Volkswagen Polo
- Toyota Fortuner
- Ford Ranger
- Nissan NP200
- BMW 3 Series
- Toyota Quantum
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class
- Hyundai H-1
- Audi A3
Hijackers in South Africa commonly target the above vehicles because they are in high demand on the black market across the African continent. It has been said that the Fortuner vehicles are stolen mostly for their engines.
The Toyota Hilux is primarily taken across the border into neighbouring countries because these vehicles are well-equipped to handle African roads.
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How to Stay Safe in High-Risk Zones
Staying safe in high-risk zones requires adopting a proactive and strict safety checklist. Here are some of Pineapple’s most helpful suggestions to keep you from falling victim to hijackings in South Africa in 2025:
1. Create a pre-drive routine.
- Lock all your car’s doors and roll up the windows.
- Check your rearview mirror for suspicious behaviour or shifty characters, but don’t linger longer than necessary.
- Keep your portable possessions out of sight, especially handbags and cellphones.
2. Practice situational awareness.
- Maintain a safe driving distance between you and the vehicle in front of you to allow for an escape route.
- Approach robots (traffic lights for any non-South Africans possibly reading this) and intersections cautiously, especially at night.
- Be extra alert when pulling into your driveway. Check your surroundings and get in as quickly as possible.
| Always park in secure parking and avoid parking on the street where possible. If street parking is your only option, try to park as close as possible to where there is lots of activity and people, not down the road in quieter streets with poor lighting. This helps avoid surprises when walking to or trying to leave or drive off after an evening out. |
3. Use tech to your advantage.
- Use GPS apps to alert you to which areas are hotspots and which places to avoid.
- Keep your cellphone fully charged and easily accessible, but hidden. This allows you to quickly and discreetly hit a panic button.
What to Do If You’re Hijacked
In the unfortunate event that you are hijacked, the most crucial thing to remember is that your life matters more than a car. A hijacking is an intense situation, but a calm and practical reaction can help you live to see another day.
During a Hijacking:
- Remain calm: Stay calm, take a deep breath and keep your hands visible, ideally on the steering wheel. This shows that you aren’t a threat and are complying.
- Do not resist: Don’t fight or argue, and avoid making sudden moves or challenging the hijacker; they’re often more nervous than you! Comply quickly by handing over the keys or whatever they ask for.
- Identify specific details: Try to mentally note the hijacker’s appearance, voice, or other identifying traits without staring. Hijackers could perceive direct eye contact as a sign of aggression.
- Comply with all instructions: Follow the hijackers’ exact commands. When instructed, get out slowly, move deliberately, and keep your hands visible. Again, no item or vehicle is more valuable than your safety.
Post-Hijacking:
- Once the hijackers have left, distance yourself from the scene and find the nearest safe spot.
- Contact the SAPS (South African Police Service) ASAP (as soon as possible) at 08600 10111 and give them all the details you can remember. Alternatively, visit the police station closest to where the incident happened.
- Next, call your insurance provider and report the hijacking. They’ll guide you through the claims process and what steps to take.
Emotional trauma after a hijacking is expected, so consider counselling or joining a support group to process your emotions. You can also phone 112 on any cellular network if you require other emergency numbers.
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How Pineapple Helps Keep You Protected
Pineapple offers more than just vehicle coverage for Gauteng car crime; we provide you with priceless peace of mind.
Comprehensive car insurance can be an invaluable part of your overall safety strategy. While we hope you never have to use it, knowing that Pineapple protects your financial well-being can help you get back on your feet in the least amount of time.
Speaking of feet, our comprehensive cover includes car hire, meaning you never have to be left stranded after a car theft.
Our policies are designed to protect you against a total loss or write-off due to hijacking. If your vehicle is taken (like Liam Neeson’s daughter in that one movie), you’re not left with debt for a financed vehicle or paying for a car you no longer have.
Pineapple’s policies also include emergency roadside assistance.
We provide a dedicated point of contact to help you navigate the aftermath of a car hijacking incident, including connecting you with the authorities, reputable tow trucks, and other service providers.
Lastly, our app-based claims process prioritises speed and empathy.
You can submit a hijacking claim digitally, and our team will work with you to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.
If your phone has been stolen, you can also do this online if you prefer. Simply go to Pineapple.co.za to submit your claim.
FAQs About Hijackings in Gauteng
Which car gets hijacked the most in South Africa?
According to recent data, the most hijacked car in South Africa is the Toyota Hilux. Other vehicles that hijackers commonly target are the Volkswagen Polo, Toyota Fortuner, Ford Ranger, Nissan NP200, BMW 3 Series, Toyota Quantum, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Hyundai H-1 and Audi A3. These vehicles join other perennial favourites on hijackers’ lists, including models like the Toyota Corolla Cross, Haval Jolion, Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, Haval H6, and Chery Tiggo 7 Pro.
How many hijackings are there in South Africa per day?
According to SAPS’s latest quarterly crime stats, about 50 cars are hijacked in South Africa each day. This number was calculated using data collected between January and March 2025 (4,533 hijackings recorded in only three months). And while hijackings decreased by 15.1%, the number of hijacked vehicles remains uncomfortably high.
What are the hijacking tactics used in SA in 2025?
The most common hijacking tactics used in South Africa in 2025 include:
- Driveway attacks.
- Exploiting traffic congestion.
- Faking an accident or emergency.
- Spiking the road.
- Impersonating law enforcement.
Which suburbs in Johannesburg are the most dangerous?
According to the latest crime statistics, the areas with the highest reported carjackings in Johannesburg include Ivory Park and Mamelodi East. Mamelodi East recorded an 80% increase in hijackings yearly, jumping from 36 incidents in 2024 to 65 in 2025. Overall, Gauteng accounts for four of the top five hijacking hotspots nationally, with Akasia and Jabulani precincts occupying the fourth and fifth worst-affected areas.
What to do during a hijacking?
During a hijacking, it is essential to avoid escalating an already tense situation. Instead, stay calm, don’t resist, and comply. Do not argue, fight back, or make any sudden movements. Instead, keep your hands visible at all times, and if you need to reach for something, like a seatbelt or a door handle, signal your intentions and exit the vehicle slowly.
Conclusion
Staying safe on SA’s roads requires vigilance and a keen understanding of the risks. Knowing the common hijacking hotspots in Gauteng and adopting a proactive approach to safety can help reduce your vulnerability.
Remember to always maintain a high level of situational awareness, familiarise yourself with the typical tactics used by hijackers, and learn about the areas where they operate.
Lastly, your safety is the number one priority. Nothing is worth your life.
Oh, and ensure you insure your car with a comprehensive policy that offers robust protection against hijacking so your financial future is secure.
Please Note: The information provided above is for informational purposes only; you should not construe any such information as legal or financial advice.
Pineapple (FSP 48650) is underwritten by Old Mutual Alternative Risk Transfer Insure Limited, a licensed Non-Life Insurer and authorised FSP. T&Cs apply.
