By Staff Writer
We’ve entered the month of December, and while many South Africans are gearing up for holidays, shopping and travel, criminals are also out to make a quick buck. Hijackers, in particular, have adjusted their tactics, with new patterns emerging across the country.
Even with overall year-to-date declines, insurance and tracking companies have noted an increase in incidents during the second half of 2025. Their data reveals a shift in both timing and location. Hijackers are now striking earlier in the day, with many incidents peaking between 11:00 and 13:00, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. Experts say criminals take advantage of these busy but non-peak hours, when road activity is high enough to provide opportunities but traffic is still light enough to speed off quickly. The province of Mpumalanga has been identified as a growing hotspot
Tracker’s national data shows similar changes. While weekends once carried the highest risk, more hijackings are now happening midweek, particularly on Thursdays between 16:00 and 21:00.
Regional differences are also emerging:
Gauteng: Tuesdays, 11:00–16:00,
KwaZulu-Natal: Wednesdays, 16:00–21:00
Western Cape: Wednesdays, 06:00–11:00
These shifts highlight that hijackings can occur at any time and in almost any setting, underscoring the importance of situational awareness.
How to Stay Safe on the Road This Festive Season
Here are practical safety tips every motorist can follow, whether you’re travelling alone, with children or with pets to stay alert and safe on the road this festive season and beyond.
Stay alert in “quiet busy” periods
Late morning and lunchtime hours are becoming prime hijack times. Avoid sitting idly in your parked car during these windows.
Approach your driveway or gate with caution
Slow down earlier, scan your surroundings, and avoid sitting at the gate waiting for it to open. If something feels off, drive past and circle back.
Keep car doors locked and windows slightly raised
Most hijackings happen when criminals catch drivers off guard at intersections and parking lots.
Don’t be predictable
If possible, vary your routes and timings. Routine makes you easy to track.
Mind your stops
Choose well-lit, busy petrol stations or shop entrances. Avoid stopping on the roadside unless it’s an absolute emergency.
Travelling with children?
Keep them buckled up before you start the car. If you sense danger, your priority is to drive away, not to unbuckle or rearrange seats.
Travelling with pets?
Use proper carriers or harnesses. A loose pet can panic, jump into the front or delay your escape.
Hide valuables and don’t use your phone openly
A phone in clear view can attract opportunists and make you less aware of your surroundings.
Trust your instincts
If something feels wrong, a suspicious vehicle, someone following too closely, or loiterers near your gate — take another route or head to a safe public space.
Information from SAPS, Naked Insurance and Tracker
