In an unsettling trend that has alarmed both motorists and security experts, hijackers in South Africa are now increasingly targeting vehicles in bold or unusual colours—reversing a long-held belief that such cars were less likely to be stolen or hijacked. According to Fidelity ADT, the first half of 2024 has seen a troubling uptick in hijackings across their operational areas, with specific attention drawn to vehicles that were once thought to be “too visible” for criminals to approach without drawing attention. But as hijackings continue to surge, even brighter-coloured cars are no longer safe from the prying eyes of criminals.
MotorHappy, a subsidiary of Motus Corporation, also highlighted this new trend, noting a growing concern among security firms and insurance companies alike. “What was once considered a deterrent for hijackers—vehicles in bright hues or striking shades—appears to have lost its effectiveness,” said a spokesperson. As the criminal modus operandi evolves, criminals are adapting, targeting a wider range of vehicles, regardless of their colour. This marks a stark shift in the dynamics of vehicle crime, as hijackers have become more daring and strategic, focusing less on the car’s appearance and more on the ease of execution.
Fidelity’s recent findings paint a concerning picture, revealing that nearly half of all hijacking incidents in the first half of 2024 took place in Gauteng, with the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal accounting for around 14% each. The shift towards targeting specific vehicle makes and models, rather than colour, has left many South African drivers on edge. Among the most commonly hijacked vehicles are the ever-popular white Nissan Almera, white VW Polo, white Toyota Hi-Ace, and the white Nissan NP200, along with grey, blue, or white Toyota Corollas—all of which dominate the list of stolen or hijacked cars.
While it may have once been true that a flashy red or neon yellow car could draw unwanted attention, the new trend in hijacking shows that criminals are growing more sophisticated and less concerned with subtlety. The rise in these targeted crimes underscores the need for greater vigilance among vehicle owners, as well as a broader conversation around the security measures necessary to protect both personal property and human lives. As the situation escalates, security firms are urging drivers to consider more advanced vehicle tracking systems and to remain extra cautious in high-risk areas.
