Nobody likes talking about crime, but in our beautiful South Africa, being informed is better than being blindsided. At King Price, we believe in sharing knowledge (and a bit of humour) to help our clients stay ahead. So, here’s a look at what’s most often stolen in Mzansi, and how you can protect your humble abode.
- Cars: The big ticket target
Let’s start with the obvious… Your ride. According to the latest data:
- Between January and March 2025, about 7,731 cars (cars and motorbikes) were stolen in South Africa, which works out to roughly 85 cars per day.
- According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), data shows that between the same period above, there were 4,533 hijackings. That’s about 50 cars hijacked each day.
- The province of Gauteng remains the hotspot, reporting the largest share of car theft incidents.
Why this matters: Your car is mobile, valuable and often targeted for resale, parts or even cross-border export.
What you can do:
- Make sure your car is insured (comprehensive insurance, not just third party insurance).
- Consider extra security (trackers, immobilisers). Many insurers (including us) look favourably on that.
- Park in secure garages or well-lit areas.
- Don’t leave valuables on display in your car. Smash and grab is real.
- Home electronics, jewellery and portable possessions
Beyond cars, criminals love the quick-flip items, such as portable, valuable, and easy-to-move items. According to official surveys:
- The latest Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) report shows that house break-ins remain the most experienced crime by households.
- Theft of personal property (meaning valuables, electronics, jewellery, etc.) was estimated at 1.3 million incidents between 2024 and 2025.
- Reports indicate items like portable electronics and jewellery are increasingly being targeted.
Why this matters: These items are easy to snatch and sell, and when they’re stolen, replacing them hits your wallet and your peace of mind.
What you can do:
- Secure your home perimeter: Good gates, strong doors, visible alarms.
- Mark and photograph high-value items (serial numbers, receipts) so if there’s a theft, we know exactly what was lost.
- Consider home contents insurance so you’re covered for theft of household goods, not just structural damage.
- Infrastructure and outdoor equipment
It’s not just about what’s inside anymore. For instance:
- Solar panels (and solar-related gear) have become a major target as more homes install alternative energy systems.
- Gate motors, gas bottles and other exterior/perimeter items are being stolen because they’re somewhat visible, accessible and again, easily sold.
Why this matters: You might think your perimeter gear is low risk, but criminals recognise value wherever it lies. The ‘out‑of‑sight’ hardware is sometimes easiest to grab.
What you can do:
- Make sure your outdoor equipment is secured (locked cages, motion detection lights, signage).
- Ensure your insurance policy includes ‘external’ items (fences, gates, motors) if applicable. If you’re not sure, just chat to us.
- Stay alert even when you’re at home. Perimeter thefts can happen while you’re indoors.
- Good news (we promised!)
Even though these stats sound grim, there are reasons to be optimistic:
- Car theft stats have shown a drop: Car theft decreased by about 9.1 % comparing January to March in 2025 to the same period in 2024.
- The fact you’re reading this means you’re already thinking ahead. Taking proactive steps (locking up, installing alarms, being vigilant) really does reduce your risk.
5. How the king keeps you covered
At King Price, we don’t just sell policies. We prepare you, protect you and walk the path with you. Here’s how:
- For your car: We offer competitive comprehensive car insurance (so if your car is stolen or hijacked, you’re covered).
- For your home and its contents: Whether it’s the flat‑screen in your lounge or the solar panels on your roof, we have options that include theft (check your policy schedule).
- For your outdoor gear or investments (gate motors, generator, etc): Ensure these are declared and covered.
- We often reward the vigilant: Having alarm systems, immobilisers, strong locks, and security makes your premiums lower (yes, being savvy pays off!).
Yes, the stats around theft in South Africa are sobering. But they don’t have to leave you feeling powerless. Being aware of theft trends, taking smart steps, and insuring wisely puts you in control. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Remember… Even when criminals are busy, you can still be 1 step ahead. Visit kingprice.co.za or call 0860 50 50 50 for a quick, commitment-free quote.
FAQs
What are the most stolen items in South Africa right now? On the car side, cars and motorbikes remain high on the target list (about 85 stolen per day as of January to March 2025). On the home side, electronics, jewellery, solar equipment and gate motors rank highly, and house break-ins remain the most frequently experienced crime at household level.
If my car is stolen, will King Price cover me? Yes, if you have the correct comprehensive car insurance policy with us and meet all policy requirements (security devices and the correct insured value, etc). Check your policy schedule and terms.
What does home contents insurance cover? Home contents insurance typically covers your home’s moveable items (electronics, furniture, jewellery etc) for theft, fire and damage (depending on the policy).
Does upgrading security reduce my risk and lower my premiums? Absolutely. Installing burglar bars, alarm systems, immobilisers, trackers, etc show you’re serious about protection. That often results in lower premiums.
What should I do immediately after a theft? First, ensure your own safety (especially for home robberies). Then report the theft to the South African Police Service (SAPS), get an incident number, notify King Price, provide all details (photos, receipts, serial numbers) and follow up on your claim.