Northern Cape police issue warning as vehicle-related crimes spike

KIMBERLEY – Motorists across the Northern Cape are being urged to stay alert and take extra precautions following a spike in incidents involving vehicle-related crime, including hijackings, car break-ins, and theft of valuables from parked vehicles.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has sounded the alarm over the growing number of reports linked to motorists being targeted at traffic lights, shopping malls, social events, guest houses, and residential areas. Criminals are becoming increasingly brazen, often using distraction tactics or staging minor accidents to trap their victims.

Drive Smart, Stay Safe

To reduce the risk of falling victim, police have compiled a comprehensive list of safety measures. These include keeping vehicle doors locked and windows closed at all times, avoiding poorly lit or isolated areas, and never leaving your car unattended with valuables visible. Even a handbag or shopping bag left on the passenger seat can be enough to tempt opportunistic criminals.

Police warn against offering lifts to strangers and urge motorists to vary their routes to and from work. At night, travelling with a companion and using supervised parking areas can make a significant difference in safety.

Be Aware of Hijacking Tactics

Criminals are also known to simulate minor accidents — such as lightly bumping a car from behind — to lure drivers out of their vehicles. In such situations, SAPS advises motorists to remain inside their cars and drive to the nearest police station if they feel unsafe. Loiterers near driveways should also be treated as a red flag: if you spot any suspicious activity, drive past and report it.

If confronted by armed assailants, SAPS emphasises that no possession is worth more than a life. Do not resist. Comply with demands and move to a safe distance as soon as possible.

Protect Your Vehicle – Even When Parked

Vehicle break-ins remain a persistent problem. The police note that many incidents occur in public spaces where people let their guard down. Drivers are reminded never to leave firearms in vehicles — doing so is both illegal and dangerous. Laptops, cellphones, cameras, and other valuables should be locked in the boot and kept out of sight.

Installing alarms, using gear locks, and removing detachable radio faces can also act as deterrents. 

When parking, opt for spots that are well-lit and monitored, and avoid locations obscured by bushes or structures that could provide cover for criminals.

Report Suspicious Activity

The SAPS has called on the public to be proactive: “If you see something, say something.” Criminal activity can be reported anonymously through the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS app. All reports will be handled in strict confidence.

With vigilance and community co-operation, police hope to curb the rising trend of vehicle-targeted crimes and keep Northern Cape roads safer for everyone.

SAPS Tips: Stay Alert, Stay Safe on the Road

• Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition before undertaking any journey.
• Always keep your fuel tank sufficiently filled.
• Keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed at all times.
• Never leave your vehicle unlocked, even if stepping away momentarily.
• Avoid stopping in remote or poorly populated areas.
• Park in well-lit and secure locations.
• If a stranger approaches your vehicle, open the window no more than 5 cm to speak.
• If you feel unsafe or notice suspicious behaviour, avoid engaging and drive away.
• Limit night-time travel, or travel with a companion.
• When possible, vary the route you take to and from work.
• If a stranger approaches your car, drive off or sound your horn to draw attention.
• If you notice people loitering near your driveway, drive past. If the loitering continues, report it to your nearest police station.
• Be cautious of staged minor accidents intended to create an opportunity for carjacking.
• If bumped from behind and you feel unsafe, drive to the nearest police station.
• If forced out of your car, do not reach for valuables — leave them behind.
• Remember: your life is more valuable than your possessions.
• Do not resist if the attacker is armed.
• Surrender your vehicle without resistance and move to a safe distance.
• Consider joining a lift club to reduce your risk.
• Never offer lifts to strangers.
• Use a gear lock — an affordable and effective anti-theft device.
• If possible, install a mirror on your garage wall to check for followers.
• Only open your garage doors once your gates are securely closed.

SAPS Tips: Don’t Make Your Car a Target

• Do not leave your firearm in the glove compartment (cubbyhole) or anywhere in the vehicle when parked — this is against the law.
• Ensure all doors and windows are properly locked when you park your vehicle.
• Lock valuable items such as laptops, handbags, shopping bags, cash, and cameras in the boot, out of plain sight.
• Be alert to people who approach and inform you of a flat tyre — this may be a distraction to steal visible items from your vehicle.
• Keep doors locked and windows closed at all times, especially when driving in urban areas.
• Do not use a cellphone unless you have a hands-free kit — using a phone can also attract criminals.
• At night, park in well-lit areas — avoid dark, secluded locations.
• Never leave your keys in the ignition.
• Remove detachable radios or radio faceplates when leaving your vehicle unattended.
• Consider installing an alarm and/or other anti-theft devices.
• Use parking areas with attendants or visible security. If unavailable, choose spots that are busy and open — avoid parking near bushes, walls, or buildings where offenders could hide.