Written by Malcolm Libera, as featured on BusinessTech.co.za, 4 Nov 2024
In a new, concerning trend in South Africa, Fidelity ADT reports that car thieves in Gauteng are now targeting vehicles left at local car washes. This alarming pattern highlights a growing vulnerability, especially in the West Rand area, where five incidents occurred in just the past week. Thieves exploit the ease with which drivers leave their vehicles—often with the keys inside—while they shop, run errands, or take a break.
Here’s how the tactic works: car thieves wait for unsuspecting customers to drop off their vehicles at busy car washes, sometimes blending in with the crowd. When a customer leaves their keys with an attendant, a thief may approach and claim to be authorized to collect the car, or even brazenly take cars left unlocked or with the keys in the ignition. In moments, they’re gone, leaving the real owner stranded.
This trend is especially worrisome in Gauteng, where hijackings have already spiked this year. South Africa now sees a vehicle hijacked roughly every 22 minutes, with Johannesburg among the highest-risk areas. Popular models, particularly SUVs and certain Toyotas are at greater risk due to their high resale and parts value on the black market.
To stay safe, Fidelity ADT advises drivers to keep their keys in hand rather than leaving them with an attendant and to monitor their vehicle from a safe distance. Here are some quick tips to protect yourself:
- Hold onto your keys or ensure your car is within sight.
- Be vigilant in busy areas where you may be approached.
- Report suspicious behaviour immediately.
- Tell attendants only you, the vehicle owner, will pick up the car.
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